Tips on Avoiding Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic illness that results from the body's inability to utilize insulin effectively. Unfortunately, while there are preventative measures one can take to avoid developing this form of diabetes, it's not completely preventable.

There are individuals who produce inadequate insulin to effectively manage blood sugar levels and others who produce insulin but their body is unable to use it effectively. This latter condition is known as insulin resistance. If not effectively managed, it can result in elevated glucose levels in the body which can eventually damage vital body organs such as the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.

Type 2 diabetes is prevalent in the United States with approximately 1 out of every 10 Americans living with diabetes, 90-95% of these instances are type 2. Adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, monitoring blood sugar levels, and maintaining other healthy behaviors can aid in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

This article delves into understanding type 2 diabetes, individuals most at risk, how genetics can influence the risk, risk reduction tips, and useful discussions to have with your healthcare provider.

Adults aged 45 and older are the most at risk of developing diabetes regardless of type. Type 1 diabetes is often caused by an autoimmune attack on the body's insulin-producing cells, while type 2 diabetes usually results from insulin resistance.

There are also other risk factors to consider for T2D:

Diabetes can be diagnosed in various ways. For some, noticeable symptoms lead to testing and diagnosis, while for others, the disease can go unnoticed for extended periods of time, causing significant damage along the way.

Having a direct family member with diabetes increases your chances of being diagnosed 5-10 times. However, everyone with a family history of diabetes does not necessarily develop diabetes. Aid in risk reduction can be garnered through managing modifiable risk factors such as diet, physical activity, and blood pressure.

A direct genetic test for diabetes predisposition is currently unavailable. You're advised to keep your healthcare provider informed of any family medical history and report any symptoms of T2D immediately upon appearance.

Addressing modifiable risk factors can significantly impact diabetes risk. Seeking help from a medical professional when making lifestyle changes, medication decisions, or discussing treatment options is always beneficial.

Although there isn't a specific screening tool for predicting diabetes, regular blood tests can assist in diagnosing the virus. Typically, random blood glucose levels can provide a snapshot of your blood sugar level at any given time. Tests like Hemoglobin A1C monitor your blood sugar trends over three months.

Such blood tests can be administered in an office or laboratory setting. Side effects may include slight pain at the injection site and mild bruising that may last a few days.

Lifestyle alterations may aid in preventing or delaying diabetes. Current guidelines include:

These lifestyle recommendations have been shown in a recent meta-analysis of numerous studies to decrease T2D risk by 47%, consistent with findings from first studied back in 2002.

Your healthcare provider can offer assistance and encouragement in this lifestyle transformation. You may benefit from diabetes education programs, consultation with a professional dietitian, or joining an exercise program. Future research will address how to integrate these lifestyle changes, accommodating different abilities and circumstances.

There are only a handful of medications, such as Metformin, that can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. However, if you are prediabetic or diagnosed with T2D, your provider may prescribe medication to help manage your blood sugar levels.

Be sure you understand how to check your blood sugar and take your medications. Abnormal blood sugars can cause serious complications and other health issues.

There are both oral and injectable medications that are used to treat type 2 diabetes. Your provider will consider your health situation and prescribe medications if needed. Some people need to try different medications or different combinations of medications to achieve their goal blood sugar levels. Be sure to notify your healthcare team of any side effects, problems with blood sugar levels, or concerns about your treatment plan. 

The most common symptoms of diabetes include:

Talk to your healthcare provider about any symptoms of diabetes you experience or any concerns you have about developing diabetes. 

Be sure to speak with your provider about any major lifestyle or medical changes you want to make before you start them. 

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and typically affects adults over 45. Symptoms may be unnoticeable or mild at first, so follow up on any regular tests your provider has you complete. There are not any perfect ways to prevent diabetes, but losing weight, increasing activity, and eating a balanced diet may help. 

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, work with your healthcare team to learn how to control your blood sugar levels. Taking your medications and eating your recommended diet can help reduce the long-term serious complications that can occur when someone has diabetes.