Diabetes is a disease whereby a person's body has higher than normal blood sugar level. There are broadly two types of diabetes, namely type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes happens when the patient's body does not have the ability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes happens when the patient does not produce sufficient insulin or the body does not function well enough to break down the sugar level in the blood. With an average 7.8% of the total population in US suffering from this disease, it is highly important for everyone to know some important lifestyle modifications to keep away from this dreadful disease.

Obesity is a risk factor leading to diabetes.

If one is overweight even if you try to reduce by a few kgs, it might reduce the risk to half and prevent diabetes. A diet that is low in calorie and fat must be adhere to. Obese people must eat more of fruits and vegetables which can cut the risk by 22% according to a study. Cutting down on high sugar drinks is a must as this simple innocent habit increase the risk by more than 25%.

Simple changes in lifestyle to prevent diabetes

The simplest thing would be to get at least 30 minutes exercise every day so that you can achieve a lower weight as exercise has a great beneficial effect on insulin levels and consequently blood sugar levels. 'Couch potatoes' who spend a lot of time watching television are one of the groups that has a high risk. Sitting on the sofa to enjoy the latest sitcom is not active at all and people tends to snack as well. Instead one could go out for a walk or do a dance or just play around with the children or grandchildren.

Diabetes prevention for high risk groups

People with a history of diabetes in the family, or a gestational diabetes baby, an overweight baby, persons with high blood pressure or those with a history of heart problems are at increased risk and must definitely make simple lifestyle changes in order to prevent diabetes. If one has been diagnosed for prediabetes, it is a clear warning that action must be taken soon. Some people have a fasting blood sugar of 126 and above which means that they are diabetic. Others have lower than 100 which is consider to be normal. Those who are in between are consider to have prediabetes and are at risk as well. The best preventive measure in this case is also by walking for around 30 minutes a day and reducing weight. It has been proven that a mere 5% reduce in weight can help to greatly reduce diabetes risk.

Simple Tests that can be taken to prevent diabetes

Additionally, one can take tests such as fasting plasma glucose test on an empty stomach or an oral glucose tolerance test which compares the blood taken on fasting with blood after a sugary drink has been given to you. This could be the first step for preventing type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Diabetes results when the blood sugar level goes up due to lack of insulin for improper insulin functioning. However, the good news is that it can be cured with simple lifestyle changes and by leading a healthy life.