Preventing Diabetes

A wise person once said, "if you know why you need to do something, you are far more likely to do it."

While People with diabetes can take insulin to keep blood glucose levels close to normal, preventing or delaying the development of diabetes in the first place is even better. Although the exact cause of diabetes is unknown, there are some precautions that can be taken to lower the risk of developing diabetes.

Preventive care practices have been shown to be effective in reducing both the incidence and progression of diabetes related complications. In addition, research studies in the United States and other countries have found that lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. These lifestyle changes include eating a nutritious diet, participating in regular moderate intensity physical activity such as waling 2.5 hours each week and losing excess weight.

Eating more fruits, vegetables and herbs will not only aid in weight loss and better overall health, but can also lead to controlling or even preventing diabetes.

A person who is 40% overweight is twice as likely to die prematurely than an average weight person. This is because obesity is linked to several serious medical conditions including diabetes. According to the Diabetes Prevention Program, losing even a few pounds can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes because it helps the body use insulin more effectively. This research studied 3,234 people who were at high risk for diabetes and had them participate in a moderate diet and exercise program. Their results were a 5% to 7% weight loss which delayed or prevented type 2 diabetes by 58%. In additional, eating more fruits, vegetables and herbs will not only aid in weight loss and better overall health, but can also lead to controlling or even preventing diabetes.