Get up and exercise!

Why is it that most people would prefer to take a “miracle pill” instead of working towards being healthier--- or even preventing the condition in the first place?

The article in the NY Times, When Advice on Diabetes Is Sound, but Ignored, deals with this issue directly. Doctors are now questioning whether they should even continue to advise patients to exercise and follow a diet or whether to just prescribe drugs in order to prevent diabetes. They have found that most patients tend to ignore the doctor’s recommendation of a lifestyle change (in this case, exercising and losing weight) to treat patients at high risk of developing diabetes. Even if patients do initially follow the recommendations, despite being at high risk, patients tend to not continue with their exercise routines. They would much prefer to take medication.

Why is this? Is it that we have gotten so addicted to “quick fixes” or taking a “miracle pill” whenever possible?

There are no shortcuts, everyone.

We know you’ve heard this repeatedly--- but exercise and a healthy, balanced diet is good for you--- especially if you are at high risk for diabetes. Why be so dependent on drugs (especially when medication is so expensive now)?

Get up and start walking. Get some exercise. Stop being dependent on medication. As one doctor in the article mentioned, “Drugs should be a last resort.”