How Diabetes Starts
Diabetes takes years to develop. Obesity and poor diet cause changes in the chemistry in the body. A person becomes diabetic when the body can no longer use insulin, produced in the pancreas, to control blood sugar levels. The body becomes less sensitive to insulin. Cells in the pancreas, called beta cells, produce insulin. As diabetes develops, the beta cells become less efficient. Heredity plays a role in the development of type 2 (the most common) form of diabetes. However, it is possible to avoid becoming diabetic with the proper lifestyle and diet.
How Obesity Leads to Diabetes
A person becomes diabetic when insulin that lowers blood sugar becomes ineffective. That happens when there are too many fat cells in the body. Research published July 2009 in the journal Cell Metabolism, and led by researchers at Monash University, revealed that fat cells release an enzyme called PEDF (pigment epithelium-derived factor). PEDF causes the pancreas to become desensitized to insulin---the result is that more insulin is released until the pancreas becomes so overworked that no more insulin is released, causing type 2 diabetes.
Pre-Diabetes
If your doctor diagnoses you with pre-diabetes, it means that you will become diabetic without the proper lifestyle and dietary changes. Pre-diabetes means that your blood sugars are elevated beyond normal. Changes in diet and increased physical activity can reverse pre-diabetes, and prevent a person from becoming diabetic. Exercise moderately for 30 minutes, at least three days a week. Take medications recommended by your physician. You can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes more than half by losing 5 to 10 percent of body fat. Eat fruits and vegetables, whole grains, brown rice, fish, lean meat, non-fat dairy products, and cut back on sweets, including baked goods and other desserts. Cut down on portions even when making healthier food choices to avoid weight gain. Choose calorie-free and diet drinks over sugar-laden sodas. Researchers have closely studied how a person becomes diabetic. Have your blood sugar checked by your physician, and take steps to avoid type 2 diabetes through diet and exercise. Medication may be prescribed by your doctor even if you have not yet been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
