By Karissa Pickett, Communications Officer
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office

The Chickasaw Nation will sponsor the Move It! Family Fun Walk from 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m, Saturday, June 14, at Wintersmith Park in Ada. Registration will end at 9:00 a.m.

Move It! Is the National Diabetes Education Program's campaign to help increase physical activity and combat diabetes. Diabetes is one of the most serious health challenges facing American Indians and Alaska Natives in the United States.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), American Indians and Alaska Natives are 2.2 times more likely to have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease. In this type of diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin or cells ignore the insulin. Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy. The body normally breaks down sugars and starches from food into glucose. Insulin then takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. When this process does not happen and glucose remains in the blood and builds up instead of going into cells, it can starve cells for energy and over time, high glucose levels may harm your eyes, kidneys or heart. 

Diet and exercise are key factors in eliminating and reducing the risk of diabetes. A great impact can be made on your overall health by making a few small changes, including eating healthier and increasing physical activity. 

Plan to attend the Move It! Fun Run/Walk events with your family and friends to help increase physical activity and combat diabetes. Many Chickasaw Nation programs will have information booths at the event.  

For more information, please contact Melinda Ward at (580) 310-9661.