Diabetes is a condition affecting over 48 million people every year. There are 2 types of diabetes, simply known as Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is more common in children, but can develop at any age. It is also known as juvenile diabetes. Those affected with Type 1 diabetes are insulin dependant due to the pancreas producing little or no insulin in which the body needs.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body produces too much insulin. With this type of diabetes, your body is resistant to the effects of insulin and can be deadly if left untreated. This type of diabetes is more common than Type 1, and can go years undetected.
Diabetes is much more than a simple disease, as it causes other conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and in some cases, death.
Diabetes is not a curable disease; however there are many ways you can help prevent becoming diabetic. Those include:
1. Watch Your Weight
Type 2 diabetes number one cause: being overweight. The more fatty tissues in your body, the more resistant your body becomes to insulin. Loosing just 5 to 10% of your body fat can dramatically decrease your chances of developing diabetes.
2. Eat Your Fiber
Fiber is great for your body already, and it can help you prevent getting diabetes by improving your blood sugar. It is easy to get the fiber intake your body needs, as it is found in breads, cereal, and more great tasting foods you already enjoy.
3. Exercise
While you may prefer to sit on the couch and watch Seinfeld reruns, getting too little physical activity can cause an array of health concerns, as well as make you more susceptible to diabetes. Make sure you are getting plenty of exercise each and everyday, whether it is from a mild walk or a short workout. The CDC recommends at least 30 minutes of activity 5 days per week.
4. Eat Healthy
The burgers and fries are great every now and again, but not getting the proper nutrition can cause diabetes. Eat whole grain foods, as well as those that are low fat. Choose a variety of vegetables to include in your daily menu, and be sure to watch how many calories you consume daily. Eating smaller portions during meal time can also reduce your risk. Instead of filling up on 3 meals per day, consume 5 to 6 smaller portioned meals.
5. Drink Water
Our body needs water to survive. Drink the recommended 6 to 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body running great, and help ensure you will not suffer from diabetes.
6. Stay Away From Fat Free Foods
The label makes them sound appealing, yet eating foods labeled fat free actually do more harm than good when speaking of diabetes. Fat free foods send insulin levels into orbit and you may not be able to control these levels again.
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