3 Tips to Lower your risk for Type 2 Diabetes

Before tips are addressed, first lets look at a few different types of Diabetes and compare them.

Type 1 Diabetes – Type 1 diabetes makes up around 10% of all diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin because beta cells that make insulin are destroyed by the immune system. This means that all type 1 diabetics must take insulin daily. Type 1 diabetes typically is diagnosed in Adolescence and young adulthood.

Type 2 Diabetes – Type 2 diabetes makes up the remaining 90% of diabetics. In type 2 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or has insulin resistance. This type of diabetes tends to show up with older or overweight people. Actually, around 80% of type 2 diabetics are overweight. Also, type 2 diabetes is becoming more prominent in children.

So, after reading all of that, the differences between the two are pretty clear. But, the questions still remains: How do I prevent myself from being diagnosed with diabetes?

Sadly, Type 1 diabetes isn’t something that can be prevented. However, if you are above the age of 20, your risk of being diagnosed is drastically reduced.

Here is our 3 tips for lowering your risk for type 2 diabetes:

1.  Eat Healthy: Eating healthy is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
2. Watch your weight:  Staying at a healthy weight can help prevent issues like type 2 diabetes. (Remember: 80% of type 2 diabetics are overweight)
3. Physical Activity: Physical activity can go a long way to reduce your chances of becoming diabetic.