This week we focus on things we can do to help prevent what's known as Type 2 diabetes.
Our bodies get energy from glucose, which is a type of sugar. Insulin is made in the pancreas and helps our bodies use glucose. Type 2 diabetes occurs when one's body can no longer use insulin in an effective way or the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
Being overweight or obese is among the primary risk factors for type 2 diabetes. People who are at high risk can reduce their chances of developing the disease by losing weight and increasing activity. Participants in the Diabetes Prevention Program were able to lower their risk of type 2 diabetes by losing 10-15 pounds and engaging in 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week.
A healthy weight is determined by body mass index (BMI). A BMI greater than or equal to 25 indicates being overweight, while a BMI greater than or equal to 30 indicates obesity.
Lose weight properly by:Starting a weight loss program with the support of your health care team.Asking for a referral to a dietician who can help you find a diet you can stick to every day.Not trying to do everything at once. Take one step at a time and make changes you can abide by.Exercise and other physical activity can help you shed some pounds by building muscle and burning calories. It will take some time for results to show, but each activity will get easier as your fitness level improves.The benefits of being physically active are:Your body responds better to insulin.You burn extra calories and naturally boost your glucose uptake by increasing your muscle mass and metabolism.If you have type 2 diabetes, you reduce or even eliminate your need for medication due to lower blood glucose levels.Some things you can do to get started include:Taking the stairs instead of the elevator.Walking the dog.Finding a family member or friend you can exercise with.Should diet and exercise not be enough to help you lose weight, your health care provider may prescribe medications. http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/diabetes-alert-and-awareness-4520451.html