Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting Latino communities today — and it's no longer just a concern for older adults. 

More and more millennials in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. 

The good news? With the right tools and support, this condition can be prevented, managed, and in many cases, even reversed.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels remain consistently high because the body is either not producing enough insulin or not using insulin effectively. Insulin is the hormone that helps move sugar from the bloodstream into your cells to be used for energy.

There are different types of diabetes:

• Type 1: Usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence; the body produces little to no insulin.

• Type 2: The most common type, typically developing in adulthood but increasingly seen in younger people. The body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough.

• Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

Why Are Millennials at Risk?

Latino individuals are genetically more likely to develop insulin resistance, but lifestyle factors also play a major role:

• Highly processed diets high in refined carbs and sugars

• Sedentary lifestyles

• Chronic stress and poor sleep

• Limited professionals that know how to provide culturally competent healthcare

The combination of these factors increases the risk of developing diabetes earlier in life.

What Are the Health Risks?

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications over time, including:

• Heart disease and stroke

• Kidney damage

• Nerve damage and limb amputation

• Vision loss

• Increased risk of infections

Early detection and intervention can significantly reduce these risks.

Taking Control: Lifestyle as Medicine

At AztecaWellness, we focus on lifestyle-based care grounded in science and cultural relevance. Our approach is rooted in plant-based nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and reconnecting with traditional whole foods that have supported health for generations.
👉🏼What is Lifestyle Medicine?

Here are 5 evidence-based steps to lower your risk or manage diabetes effectively:

1. Eliminate sugary beverages – Choose water, unsweetened herbal teas, or naturally flavored infused waters.

2. Focus on whole, minimally processed foods – Prioritize vegetables, fruits, and our fiber-rich traditional staples like beans, squash, and corn (in its whole or traditionally prepared forms).

3. Engage in regular physical activity – Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 or more days of the week.

4. Improve sleep and stress management – Sleep and stress have a direct impact on blood sugar and insulin sensitivity.

5. Partner with a healthcare provider who understands your background and goals – A personalized care plan can empower you to make long-term, sustainable changes.