For the Dad with Diabetes

It is often a challenge for men to speak about their health issues openly and on a regular basis. However, we are not afraid to pick an occasion like Father’s Day to break the stigma and speak about men with diabetes.

Men are at a greater risk of being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes compared to women. According to statistics, in 2017, 7.3% of Canadians (which is an estimated 2.3 million people aged 12 and older) reported being diagnosed with diabetes. The proportion of males who reported being diagnosed with diabetes was 8.4% whereas only 6.3% of females reported being diagnosed. New research has revealed that men are biologically more susceptible and need to gain far less weight than women to develop the condition.

As diabetes is a growing concern in men, it is imperative that we educate ourselves about some of the symptoms that are unique to men. Besides the common signs of diabetes like thirst, frequent urination, headaches, and fatigue, the signs and symptoms of men suffering from diabetes include:

1. Erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence)
2. Low testosterone (low-T)
3. Decreased sex drive (decreased libido)
4. Retrograde ejaculation.

Low testosterone may cause depression, decreased sex drive, lack of energy, and reduced muscle mass. Male-specific sexual problems, as well as urological problems, could also become a possibility. A common symptom of chronic disease in men is the inability to get or maintain an erection, which is also a common symptom of diabetes. Other complications such as leg amputations or death are also common among men with diabetes.

Diabetes may be a growing issue among the male population, but the fight to conquer the disease continues. It is imperative for a diabetes patient to maintain a healthy balance in his mental, physical, and emotional health to live a healthy lifestyle. This Father’s Day we want to give you help so you can help the men in your life living with diabetes. Below are some ideas that you may want to consider for the celebration of the special day!

MENTAL HEALTH GIFTS

Mental health is often overlooked as part of managing diabetes. To boost mental health, take some time out to visit these peaceful places and rejuvenate with your dad.

1. Forest Heights Park located on 10104 84 St NW, Edmonton , AB T6A 0B2
2. Bower Ponds located on 4715 Fountain Dr. Red Deer , T4N 6W4
3. Calgary Sandy Beach Park located on 4500 14A St. S.W. North Glenmore, Calgary , T2T 2V8

GOOD EATS AND SWEET TREATS

Who says people with diabetes are not allowed to treat themselves to healthy yet delicious meals? Neither the doctors nor us! Do your taste buds a favour and click on these links to help you choose, plan, cook and devour diabetes-friendly, low-carb meals this Father’s Day.

Breakfast: https://diabetesstrong.com/recipes/?_tags_n=30-min-or-less%2Cbreakfast

Dinner: https://diabetesstrong.com/10-healthy-dinner-recipes-for-diabetics/

Lunch: https://diabetesstrong.com/10-healthy-diabetes-friendly-lunch-recipes/

Dessert: https://diabetesstrong.com/easy-diabetic-desserts/

PHYSICAL HEALTH GIFTS

Physical activity is a must for men with diabetes. Wondering what physical activity to do with dad that will be fun AND relaxing? We have ideas!

1. Wolf Willow Stairs located on 12 Wolf Willow Point NW, Edmonton , AB T5T 1E3; accessible via the stairs from Westridge Park (170 Willow Way) or from the Fort Edmonton Park footbridge
   
2. The Jungle Farm located on 8120 Township Rd 362, Red Deer County, AB T4G 0M7
   
3. Gold Rush Adventure at HorsePlay! Ranch Adventures located 12 minutes SW of the town of Okotoks
   

DIABETES FRIENDLY PRESENTS

Don't forget an actual present for dad! Here's a short list of some thoughtful gifts for dads with diabetes.

1. Circulation socks that help with nerve pain: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MWB6OM/?tag=dodoburd-20
2. Fitness Trackers: depending on your budget, it may be available online on websites such as Amazon or in stores.
3. Books: Dealing with Diabetes Burnout by Ginger Vieira (Demos Health, 2014): https://www.amazon.ca/Dealing-Diabetes-Burnout-Frustrated-Overwhelmed/dp/1936303590
4. Father’s Day sugar-free gift box: https://www.diabeticcandy.com/product469.html

Living with diabetes is challenging, but it is important that we as a society take a stand in educating ourselves and others. To the men who suffer from diabetes and the people who know of a male suffering from diabetes, we are in this together.

This Father’s Day we celebrate you and your perseverance in the fight against diabetes. Happy Father’s Day!