November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to focus on a condition that affects many in our community. At Northern Hearts and Curans Heart Centre, we believe that early detection is the key to prevention. Today, we want to share some exciting new tools that are changing how we understand our risk for type 2 diabetes, moving far beyond a simple number on a scale.
We all know that factors like genetics and lifestyle play a role. But what if we could see the risk before it becomes a problem?
Traditionally, doctors use measures like BMI (Body Mass Index) to assess health. However, BMI doesn’t tell the whole story. It can’t distinguish between muscle and fat, or, more importantly, where that fat is stored.
This is where new technology comes into Curans. A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), which many know for measuring bone density, is also an incredibly powerful tool for body composition. A quick, low-dose scan can precisely measure your fat mass, lean muscle, and most critically your visceral fat. This is the “hidden” fat stored around your abdominal organs, and it is a major driver of insulin resistance and heart disease. Knowing this number gives us a much clearer picture of your true metabolic health than BMI alone.
Another breakthrough is the Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). Instead of just a single finger-prick test at the doctor’s office, a CGM is a small, wearable sensor that tracks your glucose levels 24/7. This allows you and your doctor to see exactly how your body responds to the foods you eat. You might be surprised to see how a seemingly “healthy” meal causes your blood sugar to spike, or how a short walk after dinner can help level it out.
While these new tools look at future risk, it’s also vital to know the common signs of diabetes. If you are experiencing excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, or persistent fatigue, please speak with your healthcare provider. These signs, along with a family history, are important reasons to get tested.
As we approach the holiday season, with its tempting sweets and large portions, this knowledge is power. These tools, like DEXA and CGM, empower us to move beyond guesswork. They allow for earlier, more personalized prevention strategies.
By understanding our unique body composition and real-time glucose responses, we can make informed changes to protect our health for years to come.
(This article is based on emerging research in metabolic health being advanced by Curans Heart Centre.)
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Email: northernhearts@tbaytel.net
Submitted by Northern Hearts Group