Obesity-related illnesses top the list as the leading causes of death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes ranks No. 7 in the leading causes of death in the United States. There exists a solid link between obesity and diabetes, and treatment for diabetes often begins with healthy diet and weight loss.
Obesity Rate
A staggering portion of people in the United States are considered obese. This is defined by having a body mass index, or percentage of body fat, that is 30 percent or higher. Colorado, the state with the lowest obesity rate, still ranges 15 to 19 percent. The heaviest states, which include Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee and West Virginia, report more than 30 percent obesity by population.
Diabetes Causes
Type 2 diabetes is one of the leading complications of obesity. Heredity also plays a part in developing both obesity and diabetes. According to MayoClinic.com, diabetes develops when the body stops metabolizing blood glucose, or sugar, properly. This often occurs slowly over many years or decades of inactivity and poor diet. This results in high amounts of sugar in the blood. Complications can arise including kidney and vision problems.
Diabetes Symptoms
People often have no symptoms for months or years after developing diabetes. According to MedlinePlus, when symptoms begin to develop they include blurred vision, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, slow wound healing, frequent infections, increased appetite, increased thirst and increased urination. Other symptoms may develop such as kidney problems or leg and foot pain that are linked to diabetes.
Diabetes Treatment
Treatment for Type 2 diabetes often begins with changing diet and exercise habits. Some cases of diabetes can be managed with proper diet and regular exercise. Obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight is also important. If diet, exercise and weight loss cannot control the disease, then medications to reduce blood sugar or insulin injections may be prescribed.
