Every 23 seconds, another American is diagnosed with diabetes. That’s more than 2 people every minute, 120 every hour, and over 1 million per year! And that’s only the diagnosed cases—millions more are living with undiagnosed diabetes or prediabetes, often without realizing it.

Even more concerning, diabetes is no longer just an adult disease. Increasingly, children and adolescents are being diagnosed—sometimes as young as preschool or kindergarten. The main driver? Rising obesity rates here in the U.S. and worldwide.

What Can We Do?

The good news is that diabetes is manageable—and often preventable. From my experience, lifestyle choices make a huge difference. Here’s what I focused on with my clients and in my own work:

• Healthy, balanced meals: Lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

• Portion control: Keeping portions in check helps prevent spikes in blood sugar.

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Even a small weight loss—as little as 5 pounds—can improve blood sugar and A1C levels.

• Regular physical activity: Staying active helps regulate glucose and supports overall health.

For people with Type 2 diabetes related to weight, I’ve seen firsthand how weight loss combined with healthy eating can reduce or even eliminate the need for medications—always under a doctor’s guidance. It’s empowering to see how proper nutrition can transform someone’s health.

My Experience with Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating

During National Diabetes Awareness Month, I reflected on one of my first experiences helping people with diabetes through Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating. At an American Diabetes Association event, I showcased our meals, shared nutritional information, and answered questions from registered dietitians. Time and again, attendees told me how helpful our meals were for their patients with Type 2 diabetes. That experience reminded me that the work we do truly makes a difference.

The goal isn’t automatically adding medications—it’s about empowering people to manage blood sugar through weight management, balanced nutrition, and healthy habits.

If you want to learn more about diabetes prevention and management, I encourage you to visit the American Diabetes Association at diabetes.org. Their mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and improve the lives of everyone affected by this disease.

— Seattle Sutton, Founder, Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating

— Seattle Sutton, Founder, Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating