Type II Diabetes
Type II diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the blood sugar and insulin in one’s body. Left unmanaged, Type II diabetes can cause serious and, eventually, life-threatening damage to organs. Type II diabetes has also been referred to as “adult onset” diabetes, and can develop at any age – even during childhood or young adulthood. While it is more common in older age, there are many preventative steps that can be taken during early adulthood that can help reduce your risks of developing diabetes later in life.
Here are the most important risk factors for Type II diabetes:
* Being overweight is the most important risk factor for the development of Type II diabetes
* Habitual inactivity also places one at risk
* Family history of diabetes among parents and siblings is another risk factor
* Race and ethnicity – African American, Hispanic, Native American, and Asian individuals are at a greater risk for developing Type II diabetes
* Medical conditions such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension, abnormal cholesterol, and gestational diabetes all put an individual at an increased risk for Type II diabetes
Reducing Your Risk of Developing Diabetes
Here are some tips that will help to reduce your risk of developing Type II diabetes, and that will have a wide range of other benefits.
* Balanced diet with the right amount of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
* Regular exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days a week is recommended. Exercise keeps your cells sensitive to insulin and keeps down excess blood sugar.