Being Overweight Is A Critical Factor In The Formation of Type 2 Diabetes

Those who have not yet been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can greatly reduce their susceptibility by doing one key action: losing weight. Being overweight is a critical factor in the formation of type 2 diabetes.

While there are other key factors that can trigger the disease, obesity still ranks at the top. In fact, statistics show that approximately 85 percent of individuals diagnosed with diabetes are overweight. With the increasing problem of obesity in America, that number isn't going down anytime soon.

The problem stems from what the extra weight does to the body. It often collects around the person's midsection. This is a telltale sign of diabetes. It also affects other parts of the person's health including a condition known as fatty liver. When diabetes forms, now the liver and pancreas are affected.

The fat performs many tasks. It builds up in arteries as plaque, reducing blood flow. It also affects insulin levels. Too much fat doesn't have the chance to burn off and is stored in the body- a dangerous scenario for someone prone to contracting diabetes.

The key to staving off the disease is to maintain a healthy weight for your body frame. This not only wards off diabetes, but a host of other health concerns, as well. Since diabetes is also directly connected to other serious conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, this is another reason to keep it at bay.

Exercise is another critical component. Losing weight is good, but implementing exercise works to improve circulation and burn fat. Your doctor can direct you as to how much should be lost and how much exercise to start out with. Once your weight begins to drop, you are moving farther away from the potential of diabetes.

Photo: Pixabay