Type 2 diabetes begins when your cells stop responding to the insulin in your bloodstream. Insulin moves glucose from your blood into the working cells, and glucose is the main mechanism for energy production in your body. Without it, cells can starve. If left untreated, diabetes can cause complications for your cardiovascular system, kidneys, eyes and nervous system. Keeping your body mass within a healthy range can reduce your likelihood of getting diabetes and can also improve blood glucose control.
Body Mass
Body mass is a general term that refers to the composition of your body. You are made up of fat, lean muscle, organs, skin, water and bones. Your body's ratio of fat to lean mass can predict your risk for developing certain diseases, like diabetes.
Assessing Body Mass
Body mass can be evaluated in two ways, by the body mass index measurement or by waist circumference. The BMI is a method of determining your percentage of body fat through your weight and height. A BMI greater than 25 is considered overweight, and those with a BMI greater than 30 are considered obese. Waist circumference measures abdominal adiposity. When your fat accumulates around your organs, you are at higher risk for developing chronic diseases. A woman should have a waist circumference of less than 35 inches, and a man's should be less than 40 inches.
Diabetes and Body Mass
Your body mass is a good predictor of whether you're likely to develop type 2 diabetes. According to a study published in "Obesity Research" in 1997, BMI and waist circumference are predictors for developing diabetes. The study suggests that your body fat distribution is an even stronger factor. People whose waist circumferences are considered unhealthy have a greater incidence of developing type 2 diabetes.
Weight Loss
Modest weight loss can reduce your risk of developing diabetes. In fact, as little as a 5 to 7 percent weight loss can prevent diabetes. Weight loss is best achieved through a healthy, calorie-controlled diet and regular exercise. According to the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association, all adults should do 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise five days per week to stay healthy.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Type 2 Diabetes
- American Heart Association: Body Composition
- Obesity Research: Waist Circumference as the Best Predictor of Noninsulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus Compared to Body Mass Index, Waist/Hip Ratio and Other Anthropometric Measurements in Mexican Americans - A 7 Year Prospective Study; M. Wei, et al.; 1997
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Am I at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
- Circulation; Physical Activity and Public Health: Updated Recommendations for Adults From the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association; 2007
