Clinical Contributor to this blog:
Eva Prieto, RN
Director of Health Promotion & Disease Management
Did you know? Many Hispanic families are at higher risk for health problems like type 2 diabetes. This is partly due to genetics, but small changes—like eating more fruits and veggies, moving our bodies every day, and going to the doctor for regular check ups—can make a big difference.Now, let’s talk about health risks, like diabetes, and what important things you should know about the disease.
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- Diabetes can run in families. So if your parents or grandparents have it, you might have a higher chance of getting it too.
- Sometimes, it’s hard for families to find healthy foods or safe places to play and exercise. Traditional Hispanic foods are tasty and made with of love, but some can have a lot of sugar, fat, or salt. And when families are super busy with work or school, it’s not always easy to cook healthy meals or stay active.
Build healthy habits by working together and having fun while doing it!
Hispanic families are full of love, tradition, and fun—and that makes them the perfect team for building healthy habits! When everyone works together, being healthy doesn’t feel like a chore—it feels like a celebration. Whether it’s dancing to music in the living room, cooking colorful meals, or playing outside, families can enjoy time together while getting stronger and feeling better. These small changes can help prevent sickness like diabetes and keep everyone full of energy. The best part? Healthy habits help families grow closer, laugh more, and live happier lives together!-
- 🥗 Cook meals together – Try new recipes with dark green leafy veggies, black beans, fish, and other healthy ingredients. Need some inspiration? Join Community First’s diabetes management program, Diabetes in Control, and get one-on-one support and healthy eating tips from a Community First Health Educator.
- 👩⚕️ Visit the doctor for checkups, even when you’re feeling okay. Regular checkups with your doctor are covered by most health insurance plans, including Community First. Adults should see their primary care provider every year for a wellness check. Community First Members can find their primary care provider’s name and phone number on their Member ID card or on the Community First Member Portal.
- 💃 Dance it out – Turn on your favorite music and have a family dance party (Zumba counts too!). Community First offers FREE in-person and virtual Zumba classes for our community. Classes available for both children and adults!
- 🚶 Move every day – Go for a walk, ride bikes, or play soccer at the park together.
- 💧 Drink more water – Choose water over soda or sugary drinks to stay hydrated and healthy.
- 😴 Get good sleep – Make sure everyone gets enough rest so they can feel their best each day.
- 😁 Brush and floss, and see your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings.
Your Questions About Health—Answered!
Can we still eat our favorite Latino foods and be healthy?
Yes! You can keep the flavor and make smart changes—like grilling instead of frying and adding more veggies. It’s all about balance!
What’s a fun way for my family to exercise?
Dance together (Zumba is super fun!), play soccer, ride bikes, or go for walks. Moving your body is even better when you do it as a team!
What is diabetes, and why should I care?
Diabetes is when your body has trouble using sugar. Some Hispanic families have a higher chance of getting it, but healthy eating and exercise can help prevent it.
Why is water better than soda?
Water helps your body work right, keeps you cool, and doesn’t have sugar. It’s the best drink to keep you feeling awesome!
Why do we need to go to the doctor even if we feel fine?
Doctors check to make sure everything’s okay before you get sick. They can do tests and review your family history to find out if you’re at risk for certain diseases, like diabetes, and help you come up with a plan to stay healthy.
Are fruits and vegetables really that good?
Yes! Many fruits and veggies, like green vegetables, avocado, citrus fruits, and berries, are sometimes called diabetes superfoods that help improve your overall health and can help prevent disease like diabetes.
How can we healthily celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
Dance to Latin music, cook a healthy family recipe, play games outside, and share time together. It’s a great way to honor your culture and care for your health!
Stay Healthy, Stay Strong: Local Resources for Hispanic Families
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- Diabetes Help SA: A program that provides health education to the community specifically designed for people living with diabetes.
- Diabetes Garage Workshop for Men: A Metro Health program designed to help men with diabetes manage their symptoms during a free four-week series. Community First Members who register may be eligible to receive gifts and rewards for participating.*
- Diabetes in Control: Diabetes Management Program: A program for Community First Members offering diabetes education, blood sugar testing and supplies, and other rewards for participating.*
- YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program: A program to help adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. Community First Members who participate may be eligible to receive a free, four-month YMCA family membership.