Managing weight crucial to preventing the onset of Type 2 diabetes

Guwahati: 10 January 2018:

People who are obese are 3 to 7 times more likely to acquire Type 2 diabetes than those with a normal weight.

According to the statistics, out of the different forms of diabetes, Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% to 95% of all diagnosed cases. Research indicates that People who are obese are 3 to 7 times more likely to acquire this condition than those with a normal weight. The risk increases by 20 times in people with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35 kg/m2.[1] The more fat around the abdomen, the greater the Insulin resistance. This is truer in case of Indians.

According to Dr Nilakshi Deka, Endocrinologist, Apollo Hospital, Guwahati “the leading trigger for Type 2 diabetes in Indians is obesity”.

Type 2 diabetes begins as insulin resistance, a disorder in which the cells do not use insulin properly. With the increase in need for insulin, the pancreas gradually loses its ability to produce insulin. Irrespective of a person’s age, the risk of type 2 diabetes rises with increasing body weight.

Speaking further about this, Dr Deka said, “The most important step in preventing Type 2 diabetes is a reduction in weight. Those who are obese should aim at limiting the intake of simple sugars such as bread, rice, sweetened drinks, pasta, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. This is because simple carbohydrates increase blood sugar levels and the production of insulin. In people with insulin resistance, this surge in insulin levels can lead to further weight gain. The goal for physical activity should be about 30 to 45 minutes, five times a week.”

Even a 5% reduction in body weight combined with regular to moderate intensity exercise can reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes by more than 50%.[2] People without diabetes and those with risk factors should also focus on consuming a healthy diet and maintain an ideal BMI to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes.