Diabetes Action Month 2022
The theme for Diabetes Action Month 2022 was Diabetes Matters. This campaign had four key subthemes:
Language Matters
A 2022 survey conducted by Diabetes NZ revealed 40% of New Zealanders living with diabetes have stopped talking to family, friends and health professionals about their condition due to a fear of being judged or getting a negative response.
The language we use in relation to diabetes can affect the physical and emotional wellbeing of people living with diabetes, in a positive or negative way. What we say can make someone feel understood, and supported, or misunderstood and stigmatised. It’s time to change the kōrero! To get tips for communicating about diabetes, check out our Language Matters resource.
Nutrition Matters
“What do I eat?” is one of the most common questions asked by people living with diabetes.
Eating healthy is a powerful tool in managing diabetes, but knowing what to eat and when can be challenging. Check out this video for more tips on cooking healthy kai.
Along with other benefits, eating healthy is essential in helping control blood glucose levels, cholesterol and weight, all of which are key to managing diabetes. Eating well also has a positive impact on your mental wellbeing.
Movement Matters
Being active helps with diabetes control. Exercise lowers your blood glucose levels, increases your energy, reduces stress, and can be a fun way to make friends.
Moderate exercise done most days of the week is best – try walking for 20 to 30 minutes each day. A good trick is to find a physical activity you enjoy and put a little more effort into it each day, like swimming, mowing the lawns or taking the dog for a walk. For more information, listen to the Movement Matters episode of our Diabetes Matters Podcast, featuring Dave Letele aka Brown Buttabean:
Prevention Matters
Diabetes is a complex condition that affects many parts of a person’s body. The good news is, with good habits and a plan of action, there is a lot you can do to live a healthy life and prevent potential complications.
Diabetes NZ’s mission is to help Kiwis with diabetes live well. For more information about diabetes complications and preventative measures you can take to live well, check out Complications of Diabetes.
