Type 2 Diabetes – Risk Factors and Prevention
November 24, 2009
Millions of people around the world suffer from type 2 diabetes. The sedentary modern lifestyle is steadily pushing up the number of diabetes sufferers. Diabetes is one the major factors responsible for heart diseases, kidney problems, eye diseases and strokes. Uncontrolled blood sugar level adversely affects the entire body. However, steps can be taken to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Pre-diabetes and diabetes risk
People suffering from pre-diabetes have the greatest risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The blood sugar level of people suffering from pre-diabetes is higher than the normal blood sugar level, but not high enough to belong to the type 2 diabetes group.
Pre-diabetes is also known as borderline diabetes. Although, people with pre-diabetes have normal glucose tolerance, but they might develop type 2 diabetes anytime in the future. If you have pre-diabetes, you should regularly monitor your blood sugar level and modify your lifestyle and diet to reduce the blood sugar level.
Risk of developing diabetes
Several factors can increase the risk of pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. People above 45 years of age and overweight or obese individuals have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with a family history of diabetes might develop the disease. Hypertension and high LDL and triglyceride levels could cause insulin resistance. Women who had suffered from gestational diabetes during pregnancy could develop type 2 diabetes in the future.
Poly cystic ovary syndrome could be responsible for raising your blood sugar level. Certain ethnic groups, especially people from Asia, Indian subcontinent and Pacific Islands are most vulnerable to type 2 diabetes. Lack of physical activity could also increase your chance of getting type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes prevention
If you are diagnosed with pre-diabetes or if you have any of the risk factors that can cause diabetes, you should take steps to prevent the disease. Losing weight and attaining normal body mass index could significantly lower your type 2 diabetes risk. Regular exercise is required to reduce the blood sugar level in the body. Brisk walking for at least 30 minutes, five days a week, could prevent your blood sugar level from shooting up. Limiting sugar and refined carbohydrate intake and increasing consumption of high fiber foods, whole grains, fruits and vegetables could prevent diabetes.
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