Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

We often talk about the fact that Obesity leads to many complications in health. One of these major risks is the development of Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that involves high levels of blood sugar due to issues with insulin production. Type 1 Diabetes occurs when the body cannot create insulin for various reasons. This type of diabetes only occurs in about 5-10% of all diabetic patients. More commonly, people deal with Type 2 Diabetes. Type 2 Diabetes occurs when the patient has begun to develop insulin resistance, a disorder that involves body cells not properly using insulin.

It’s not always clear as to why people may develop an insulin resistance which leads to diabetes, but a lot of research suggests that obesity has a strong link. In specific, excess weight in the abdomen can lead to insulin resistance developing. It’s been suggested that this extra abdominal fat causes the release of ‘pro-inflammatory’ chemicals which can cause the body to be less sensitive to insulin. Another theory says that since the metabolism is affected in obesity, fat molecules cover the receptors of the cells, which affect insulin-responsiveness.

But how can you prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes? Many have reported no longer having major issues with their diabetes once they’ve begun treating their obesity. It’s important that you consult a medical professional when looking into the right treatment for you. The earlier you get treatment, the better.

Even if you yourself may not currently be suffering from diabetes or obesity, prevention is still important. Promoting and living a healthy lifestyle can make a huge difference. Staying mindful can help decrease your risk for both obesity and diabetes, and many other health complications.

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Works Cited:

Diabetes and Obesity. (2019, January 15). Retrieved from Diabetes: https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes-and-obesity.html

Rogers, J. (2005). Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Retrieved from Obesity Action Coalition: https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/obesity-and-type-2-diabetes/