If you are overweight, your risk of developing type 2 diabetes is seven times that of a person of normal weight, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. If you are obese, your risk is 20 to 40 times higher. Fortunately, losing as little as 7 to 10 percent of your body weight can decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 50 percent. If you've already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes , weight loss may actually improve your body's response to insulin and help keep your blood sugar regulated. (Ref 4, subheading "Control Your Weight" for attribution and other information pulled from Ref 2 second para)
The Weight Connection
The cells in your body depend on glucose, or simple sugar, for energy. When you eat carbohydrates, your body converts them to glucose in your bloodstream and signals your pancreas to release insulin, a hormone that enables cells to absorb the sugar they need. Numerous studies show that being overweight can make your cells resistant to insulin, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. This causes your pancreas to produce more and more insulin. The cells producing insulin eventually wear out, resulting in type 2 diabetes.
The Warning Signs
Type 2 diabetes often provides ample warning before it develops. The Harvard School of Public Health notes that elevated blood sugar levels on a fasting glucose test might indicate that an individual is at risk for developing diabetes, especially if they are overweight or obese. Alterations in lifestyle, including weight loss, can prevent diabetes from developing and return blood glucose levels to normal.
Misconceptions
Diabetics, or those trying to prevent diabetes through weight loss and dietary changes, need not fear a life sentence of boring diabetic or special foods, says the American Diabetes Association. Vegetables, whole grains, fresh fruits, lean meats, fish and poultry all lead to a healthy diet. Controlling portions and counting calories can help you lose weight. The ADA notes that, with a little planning, people with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes can eat the same foods as any other family member.
Considerations
The rise in childhood obesity has increased the incidence of type 2 diabetes in children, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Fortunately, children also benefit from weight loss when it comes to preventing or controlling type 2 diabetes. Always check with a physician for guidelines on making changes in your child's diet that promote weight loss but continue to provide the minerals, vitamins and nutrients essential to growth and development.
Expert Insight
Making routine physical activity a part of your daily life might also help prevent or control type 2 diabetes, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearing House. Exercise can help you lose weight, control your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol levels. It may also help your body use insulin and absorb glucose more efficiently, because it makes your muscles work harder, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.
