Announcing the Fall 2023 DPP Cohort

Posted by: Devon Brady on Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Announcing the Fall 2023 DPP Cohort

Taking Steps Towards a Healthier Future and a few Diabetes Prevention Tips!

Are you ready to take charge of your health and make lasting changes to prevent diabetes? The Fall 2023 Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is here to guide you on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether you prefer in-person interactions or the convenience of virtual sessions, this program, available at 10 participating New Jersey YMCA Associations, is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to prevent diabetes. In this article, we'll explore valuable diabetes prevention tips and how the DPP can be your partner in this important endeavor.

ATTENTION: AS OF JULY 1ST, THE DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM WILL BE COVERED BY MEDICAID

Understanding Diabetes: A Brief Overview

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose, a sugar that serves as your body's primary source of energy. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. While type 1 diabetes is typically diagnosed in childhood and is not preventable, type 2 diabetes, which accounts for the majority of diabetes cases, is largely preventable through lifestyle modifications. 

Announcing the DPP Fall Cohort

The YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program is a 12-month lifestyle modification program, that is a part of a national effort, by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The program, led by trained l coaches in a small group setting, will help you adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle changes. You’ll learn and practice strategies for healthy eating, physical activity, and other healthy living activities and you’ll receive support and encouragement from both your coach and fellow classmates as you develop a plan for improving and maintaining your overall well-being. The goal of the program is to prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes by reducing body weight by 7% and participating in 150 minutes of physical activity per week.

Assess Your Risk & Determine If You Qualify

There are many factors that determine if you are at risk for type 2 diabetes – lifestyle, age, family history, and weight to name a few. Find out if you are at-risk now by taking this pre-diabetes quiz online.

  Take The Risk Assessment   

To qualify for the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, participants must be at least 18 years old, overweight (BMI > 25)*, and at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes indicated by a confirmatory blood value†, prediabetes determined by clinical diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes (GDM) during a previous pregnancy or a qualifying risk score.

In Person & Virtual Options

In-Person Sessions:

Joining in-person sessions at your local participating New Jersey YMCA Association allows you to connect with fellow participants and engage in face-to-face discussions about healthy habits, nutrition, and physical activity. It's a fantastic way to build a supportive community while learning valuable skills.

Virtual Sessions:

If you prefer the convenience of virtual learning, you can participate in the DPP Fall Cohort from the comfort of your home. Virtual sessions offer the same high-quality curriculum and expert guidance, making it easier than ever to prioritize your health.

 

How to sign up for the DPP Program

Joining the DPP Fall Cohort is simple! Contact your local New Jersey YMCA Association to learn more about the program, including session dates, registration details, and any associated costs. The following New Jersey Y’s are participating in DPP:

YMCA of Vineland/Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA | https://www.vinelandymca.org
The Gateway Family YMCA | https://tgfymca.org
Garfield YMCA | https://www.garfieldymca.com
Hopewell Valley YMCA | https://hvymca.org
Capital Area YMCA | https://capitalymca.org
YMCA Of Montclair | https://www.montclairymca.org
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA | https://lakelandhillsymca.com
YMCA of Newark and Vicinity | https://www.newarkymca.org
Greater Somerset County YMCA | https://www.gscymca.org 
Gloucester County YMCA | https://www.ymcagloco.org

Contact Suzanne Cornell

Director, Strategic Partnership & Engagement of New Jersey YMCA State Alliance

Suzanne.Cornell@yalliance.org 

(609) 808-2024

Preventing diabetes is within your reach, and it all starts with making mindful choices about your diet, activity levels, and overall well-being. The DPP offers you the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others who share your goals. Whether you opt for in-person or virtual sessions, remember that every positive step you take brings you closer to a healthier, happier future. Don't wait—take action today and be a part of the Fall 2023 Diabetes Prevention Program Cohort. Your health is worth the investment!

Diabetes Prevention Tips 

Preventing type 2 diabetes revolves around adopting healthy habits that contribute to better blood sugar control and overall well-being. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you reduce your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes:

Tip #1 Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Minimize your consumption of sugary snacks, sugary beverages, and high-fat foods.

Tip #2 Stay Active: Regular physical activity can improve your body's sensitivity to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises.

Tip #3 Manage Your Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for diabetes prevention. Even small reductions in weight can significantly lower your risk. Combine a balanced diet with regular exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Tip #4 Monitor Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, and try using smaller plates and bowls to help control your portions.

Tip #5 Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water is a healthier choice compared to sugary drinks, which can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.

Tip #6 Get Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can negatively impact your metabolism and increase the risk of weight gain.

Tip #7 Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect your blood sugar levels. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or spending time in nature.

 

  Learn More About The Diabetes Prevention Program  

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