Diabetes isn’t just a random occurrence. And you don’t catch it from strangers like other diseases. There are usually risk factors that lead to a diabetes diagnosis. You need to watch out for them.
Family History
Risk factors differ between the two major types of diabetes. Type 1 has an autoimmune etiology and is not really preventable. Type 2, on the other hand, is usually preventable. Family history is important In both types. A parent or sibling with diabetes puts you at much greater risk.
Weight
Another very important factor in diabetes type 2 is your weight. You can greatly decrease your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by keeping your weight within normal.
Physical Activity Levels
Activity levels are important, too. People who are more active are less likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than those who are sedentary. One reason for this is that exercise seems to make your body use blood sugar more effectively.
Ethnicity
Ethnicity is another risk factor in the development of diabetes. Ethnicities more likely to get diabetes are Hispanics, Paicific Islanders, American Indians, Asian and African Americans.
Age
Age is yet another important risk factor. As you grow older, your risk for developing the disease rises. Those over age 45 may start to see their blood sugar numbers rise, eventually leading to a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
Gestational Diabetes
If you had gestational diabetes while you were pregnant, or delivered a baby weighing more than nine pounds, your chances of developing full blown diabetes at some point are increased.
Other Health Concerns
Other medical conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and polycystic ovarian syndrome, (PCOS), can also contribute to type 2 diabetes.
Other health concerns, like heart disease or a previous stroke, can also mean a diabetes diagnosis is imminent. So having an overall plan of attack for better health is important.
Mental Health
Even your mental health plays a vital role in developing diabetes. Stress hormones can contribute to your body’s inability to properly use insulin. So remember that if you’re depressed, or if you experience chronic stress or anxiety, you could be setting yourself up for a diabetes diagnosis. That is an additional reason to seek help, for your mental and physical health.
