Type 2 diabetes, the most frequently diagnosed type, occurs when the body's cells can't use the insulin that's produced--or the pancreas doesn't produce a sufficient amount of insulin. But type 2 diabetes is also the most preventable type, with a number of known risk factors.
Though there are many risk factors for type 2 diabetes, two seem to carry the most weight: being overweight, and being older than age 45.
Being Overweight
The more pounds you're packing, the greater your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Most people who develop the disease are overweight, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Too much fat buildup can prevent cells from effectively using insulin, allowing glucose (sugar) to build up in the blood.
Lack of Exercise
Not getting enough exercise is a major cause of overweight and obesity, so it's considered a big risk factor for type 2 diabetes. People who live a sedentary lifestyle--spending more time on the couch than hitting the pavement or the gym--are at an increased risk of being overweight and developing type 2 diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic.
Poor Diet
Eating an unhealthy diet high in fat contributes to excess weight and type 2 diabetes risk, says the NLM. High-fat diets can also cause cholesterol levels to skyrocket--another risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Getting Older
You can't stop getting older, but with each birthday (and each birthday cake), your risk of developing type 2 diabetes automatically increases--particularly after the age of 45. Why? Most likely it's due to added pounds, decreased activity and loss of muscle.
Family History
Having a family history of type 2 diabetes is another major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Your risk is greatest if you have a brother, sister or a parent who has type 2 diabetes, says the Mayo Clinic.
Previous History of Diabetes
If you're a woman who was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you're at a much higher type 2 diabetes risk. The same goes for anyone who has been diagnosed with a condition called prediabetes, which means that blood glucose levels are abnormally high, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
What to Do
If you have any of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes, it's time to take action. Many of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes, like being overweight and not getting enough exercise, can be prevented with healthy lifestyle changes.
