Smart Snacking for Living With Diabetes( LE MARS Iowa Oct. 29 /- A new case of...),Health

LE MARS, Iowa Oct. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- A new case of diabetes strikes every 20 seconds. With nearly 24 million Americans of all ages affected by the disease and an additional 57 million at risk for diabetes, diabetes has reached epidemic proportions.(1) If current trends continue, one out of three children will live with diabetes sometime in their future.(1)

Type 1 diabetes, which occurs when the immune system mistakenly destroys cells that make insulin, is juvenile-onset diabetes; while type 2 diabetes has an adult-onset and can often be prevented. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90 percent of cases.(1) According to the American Diabetes Association, those living with diabetes can lower the occurrence of health complications and those at high risk for developing diabetes can take proactive measures to both live healthfully and prevent a diabetes diagnosis by following a healthy meal plan and regular exercise program.

"The key to healthy eating is moderation and making smart choices in your daily diet," said Mike Cecil who develops better-for-you products for Wells' Dairy, Inc., the largest family owned and operated dairy processor in the country. "By substituting low-sugar, low-carbohydrate versions of the snacks you eat, those living with and prone to diabetes are still able to eat their favorite foods while maintaining a healthy diet."

Cecil spends much of his time researching healthier ingredients that will make products better without sacrificing taste. Snacking can be part of a healthy diet and has been shown to actually help prevent overeating at meals and provide a constant source of energy for the body.(1) According to Cecil, people do not have to give up their favorite treats, instead just find a better option that will help them achieve their health goals.

"By choosing snacks with little or no added sugar, you can enjoy even your favorite treat - ice cream - and maintain a healthy, balanced
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