Type 2 Diabetes
First things first, what exactly is Type 2 Diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is an impairment in the way the body regulates and uses sugar (glucose) as a fuel. This means that too much sugar is circulating in your bloodstream.
Signs and symptoms of diabetes develop slowly, and you could be possibly living with it and not even know it. These symptoms include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased hunger
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Frequent infections
- Numbness in hands or feet
- Areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpit or neck
But what are the causes of type 2 diabetes? Being overweight or inactive. What happens with Type 2 diabetes is the cells in muscle, fat and the liver become resistant to insulin. Meaning, your body doesn’t interact with insulin correctly and they don’t take in enough sugar. Additionally, the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to manage blood sugar levels.
Let’s Avoid it
Type 2 diabetes isn’t only for adults, it’s more common for adults but with the number of children with obesity increasing, this has become normal for young people.
The first thing people turn to is medication like insulin or insulin therapy, but there are better, more efficient ways to avoid this disease.
Making a lifestyle change is extremely important if you want to live a long, healthy life. Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes from being overweight is something we never want to face, especially if you are young. Following these tips can help prevent you from suffering from diabetes:
Eat Healthy Foods
Choosing foods lower in fat and calories is a better choice for your body. Eating sugary foods and refined carbs can put you at risk for diabetes. Eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains will ultimately help you avoid type 2 diabetes and make you feel better. Diet changes can be difficult, but you can make delicious meals while still eating healthy.
Eating a high-fiber diet will also help your gut health and weight management. Fiber helps to keep blood sugar and insulin levels low. Additionally, watch your portion sizes. Try not to overeat and add unnecessary calories to your body.
Be Active
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise. This doesn’t mean having to kill yourself in a gym, but going on walks, biking, swimming, running are good ways to have a more active lifestyle. Try to aim for 30 minutes 5 days a week of physical activity.
Water
Stay hydrated. Water is the best drink for your body and does wonderful things for it in more ways than one. Avoid drinks with high sugars, preservatives, and other unknown ingredients. Increased water consumption may lead to better blood sugar control and insulin response.
Lose Weight
If you are following the steps above, then you are on the right track to losing weight. Being active, eating healthy and consuming plenty of water, then you will be able to lose weight. Type 2 diabetes is caused by being overweight, so it’s essential to lose the excess weight on your body.
If you struggle with losing weight, you may want to look into a professional weight loss clinic. Options Medical Weight Loss, Chicago, is a weight loss center to help you lose weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle. With professional doctors and a personalized diet, you can lose weight and prevent diabetes.
There are better ways to avoid type 2 diabetes, like medications and insulin therapy. Following these steps, with help, you live a long, healthy life.