Obesity and Diabetes: A Dangerous Relationship

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 25 million Americans are currently living with diabetes. Of these individuals, between 90 and 95 percent have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, a condition directly linked with an inactive lifestyle, obesity, and a list of other health problems. So, what exactly is the link between obesity and Type 2 diabetes?

A Closer Look at the Condition

Type 2 diabetes refers to a condition that cause insulin levels to remain high in the body. This begins when the body does not respond normally to insulin, a substance secreted by the pancreas, which regulates blood sugar. When you eat, your body breaks sugars and starches in glucose, which helps fuel the body. Glucose is then passed along to cells to keep them running. If the amount of glucose in the body does not enter the cells, it stays in the bloodstream, leading to high blood pressure and other health concerns associated with diabetes.

Identifying the Link

While obesity is one of the leading risk factors for the development of Type 2 diabetes, the reason why has yet to be determined. However, one of the leading theories states that obesity causes changes in the body which cause insulin resistance to develop. For individuals with insulin resistance, cells throughout the body cannot process insulin, increasing the amount of glucose in the blood. Insulin resistance can also cause cells in the pancreas to work harder to produce more of the substance which, over time, can permanently damage the cells’ abilities to do so.

Practicing Prevention

The complications of Type 2 diabetes are very serious and can become lifelong health concerns. Although the condition can be reversed in some cases, the most effective approach is to stop the disease before it starts. Type 2 diabetes prevention hinges on two main concepts: healthy nutrition habits and regular exercise.  Making significant lifestyle changes may seem like a huge overhaul, but the truth is, small, gradual changes can make a tremendous difference for your health now and in the future. To reduce your risk for diabetes, try these tips:

·         Eat foods that are low in fat and calories. Be sure to incorporate plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains into your diet. Remember, the majority of your plate should be dedicated to healthful foods, such as vegetables, not meat or other fatty foods.

·         Take a 30-minute walk around your neighborhood. Getting active doesn’t have to be difficult. Just be sure to get active for about 30 minutes of moderate activity each day.

 
Guest Post*This article was written exclusively for the Just Four All Types by The Longstreet Clinic in North Georgia, a fully-integrated multi-specialty medical group, providing quality services and healthcare for patients, families and the community.  The Obesity Solutions Specialists at Longstreet Clinic are committed to help individuals reach and maintain their goal weight by providing patients with ongoing personalized care throughout the entire process.