How to Limit Risk for Diabetes

There are two forms of diabetes, Types 1 and 2. Unfortunately, Type 1 diabetes is unavoidable. It's largely genetic and involves an autoimmune dysfunction that leads to an unproductive pancreas. However, you can limit your risk of contracting Type 2 diabetes by adjusting certain lifestyle factors. Read on to learn how to limit your risk for this type of diabetes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Watch your weight. Focusing on staying at a healthy body weight is paramount when you're trying to limit your diabetes risk. If you're overweight, work with your health care provider to reach and maintain a healthy weight. Carrying that extra weight can prevent your body from making insulin and using it properly.
2. Choose your foods wisely. Watch your portions, increase amounts of fruits and vegetables, reduce your fat and sodium intake and limit alcohol and sugar. Keep exercise and food journals to help you stay on track. Reward yourself for a job well done once you've reached a goal. Making smart food choices can help you control your weight, blood pressure and cholesterol.
3. Exercise daily, even if your choice of exercise is brisk walking. Regular exercise addresses multiple risk factors: weight loss, cholesterol and blood-pressure control, and your body's use of insulin. Getting some physical activity for just 30 minutes each weekday can reduce your risk for Type 2 diabetes.
4. Talk to your physician about your desire to maintain your health and limit risk for diabetes. When blood pressure or cholesterol are difficult to maintain, she may be able to prescribe medications that can help to improve these conditions. She may also suggest medications to limit diabetes risk.
5. Consider your health and lifestyle and what changes you can implement into your daily routine, starting immediately. The more you know about the disease and how simply you can reverse it, the more motivated you'll be to take charge.