According to the CDC, roughly 11 percent of Americans live with diabetes. 

Monica Nyman is a Senior Nutrition Educator and Registered Dietitian with the St. Louis District Dairy Council, and she explains that November is National Diabetes Month. They are taking this month to dive into how your dietary choices can affect your diabetes or prevent it. 

When it comes to dairy options, Nyman says things like milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and cheese are all great sources of protein that can be paired with fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables or whole grains. 

Nyman indicates that most Americans do not consume enough calcium or vitamin D daily. Milk and other dairy products are great sources of these nutrients. She refers to a study from the USDA linking yogurt to a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. 

Regular screenings, a healthy diet, and communication with your healthcare provider are all great ways to prevent or manage diabetes. Learn more about National Diabetes Month at STLdairycouncil.org. You can follow the St. Louis District Dairy Council on Facebook and Instagram as well.