Diabetes in America
Diabetes in America: Why We Can’t Ignore the Numbers
Every November, we shine a light on one of the most urgent health issues in America — diabetes. The numbers are staggering, and behind every statistic is a real person struggling to live a healthy, energetic life.
But here’s the truth: while the diabetes epidemic is real, so is hope. Understanding what’s happening — and what we can do — is the first step toward change.
The Alarming Statistics
11.6% of adults in the United States— that’s more than 38 million people— are living with Type 2 diabetes.
Even more concerning: 1 in 4 people don’t even know they have it.
The cost of diabetes every year is around $412.9 billion, including medical expenses and lost productivity.
That’s not just a national number — it represents lost energy, missed family moments, stress about medical bills, and the emotional weight of living with a chronic condition.
And these numbers are rising, especially among younger adults. What was once called “adult-onset diabetes” is now showing up in people in their 20s and 30s. That’s a wake-up call.
Beyond the Numbers: What Diabetes Really Costs
When most people think of diabetes, they think of blood sugar. But diabetes affects so much more than that — it impacts the heart, kidneys, nerves, eyes, and brain.
High blood sugar over time can damage nearly every organ system in the body. This can lead to heart disease, stroke, vision loss, kidney failure, and more.
But there’s another side to the cost — one that doesn’t show up on a medical bill:
The fatigue that makes it hard to get through the day.
The frustration of doing “everything right” and still feeling stuck.
The fear of complications or dependence on medications.
It’s not just about numbers on a lab report — it’s about quality of life.
The Hidden Epidemic: Undiagnosed Diabetes
It’s estimated that 23% of people with diabetes are undiagnosed.That means nearly one in four people are walking around unaware that their blood sugar levels are putting their health at risk.
Why does this happen?
Many people don’t get regular bloodwork.
Early symptoms can be subtle — fatigue, frequent thirst, or blurry vision can be mistaken for stress or aging.
And sometimes, people simply don’t think diabetes could happen to them.
This is why early detection and prevention are so important. Knowing your numbers — your fasting glucose, A1C, and waist circumference — can help you take action before diabetes develops or worsens.
We’re Not Powerless: The Hope of Prevention and Remission
Here’s the good news:Type 2 diabetes can be prevented — and even put into remission.
Recent research and clinical guidelines from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) show that lifestyle changes — like improving your diet, moving more, sleeping better, and managing stress — can be as effective as some medications or even surgery for blood sugar control.
That means your daily choices hold the key to long-term health.
🥦 Food as Medicine
Eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods— vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and high-fiber carbohydrates — helps stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
Start with small swaps:
Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal tea.
Add more non-starchy vegetables to your plate.
Choose protein at every meal.
🚶 Movement as Medicine
Exercise helps your muscles use glucose for energy and improves insulin sensitivity.
You don’t need to run marathons — start with:
A 10-minute walk after meals.
Light strength training twice a week.
Stretching or yoga for stress and mobility.
đź’¤ Sleep and Stress
Poor sleep and chronic stress raise cortisol, which increases blood sugar.
Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep and practice relaxation daily — deep breathing, journaling, or a gratitude moment.
❤️ Mindset and Support
No one can do this alone. Having a community or a coach helps you stay consistent, celebrate wins, and recover from setbacks faster. That’s exactly why the Blood Sugar Reset Membership exists — to guide you step-by-step with education, accountability, and support.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters Now
The diabetes epidemic isn’t just a medical crisis — it’s a societal one. The costs are climbing, and healthcare systems are overwhelmed treating symptoms instead of addressing causes.
If we continue down this path, the rates of diabetes and related diseases (like heart disease and Alzheimer’s) will keep rising.
But if we shift our focus — toward prevention, education, and lifestyle-based care — we can change the trend.
Every meal, every walk, every healthy choice moves us closer to a new normal where remission isn’t rare — it’s expected.
How You Can Take Action This November
Know Your Numbers– Ask your doctor for an A1C and fasting glucose test.
Make One Change– Pick one area to improve this week: your meals, your movement, or your mindset.
Join a Supportive Community– Surround yourself with people who understand the journey and celebrate progress, not perfection.
That’s exactly what we do inside the Blood Sugar Reset Membership— a supportive space where science, structure, and support meet real life.
You’ll get:
âś… Weekly coaching and Q&A
âś… Practical guides and recipes
âś… Tools to stabilize blood sugar naturally
âś… A community that believes remission is possible
Final Thoughts
Type 2 diabetes is one of the most costly and preventable chronic diseases of our time.
But behind the statistics, there’s a powerful truth: your body is designed to heal— when given the right tools.
Small steps add up.
Lifestyle is medicine.
And remission starts with belief and action.
