Obesity: Understanding the link Between Obesity and Diabetes
Obesity is a condition that is often directly linked with diabetes. This is especially true of Type II Diabetes, the most common form of the disease in the United States. Both of these diseases effect metabolism, but one of them is much more deadly. Diabetes, as of this time, cannot be cured, whereas obesity can, at least, be fought. With this in-mind, let us explore what obesity is, its link to diabetes, and what can be done to prevent both obesity, and, possibly later diabetes, in patients:
What is Obesity?
Obesity is the problem of being overweight. Most often, the term “obese” means someone is just not slightly overweight, but has a high Body Mass Index (BMI of above 30), and does not eat a healthy diet or lead an active lifestyle. Other factors may also contribute, such as the large number of chemicals and hormones currently present in our environment, genetics, and other medical complications. In many cases, these problems can be changed, or, at least, helped. Although with our hectic lives, some people may not decide to prevent obesity (and possible related diseases, like obesity, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, or cancer) until it is far too late.
How are Obesity and Diabetes Related?
Obesity and diabetes are often paired together as sister disease because obesity can put patients at a higher risk for eventually developing insulin resistance or not letting the body create enough insulin alone, the main contributing factors to Type II Diabetes. Even though other diseases or medical complications may also come about from obesity, diabetes is one of the most prevalent. When insulin resistance develops, or the body stops producing insulin, blood sugar (or glucose) levels in the body begin to rise. This can lead to further health complications, like kidney damage, cardiovascular complications, amputations of lower limbs, and blindness.
What can be done to Prevent Obesity?
If you can prevent or control your obesity, there is a serious possibility you could prevent or control the development of later diseases related to obesity, like diabetes. If you have a family history of diabetes, you may want to start trying to reduce your weight now. Begin to eat a more healthy diet by cutting out processed foods (like white flour), fat, and sugar. You would want to eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats, like fish and poultry. Also, become more active. Ways to become more active include joining an organized local sports team for recreation, starting a weekly exercise plan, taking up swimming, jogging, walking, and hiking. There are also other ways to become more active, along with regular exercise: take a walk or walk up and down the stairs during your breaks at work. Always take the stairs instead of the elevator. If on your way to a place in your hometown, or near your home, walk or ride a bike instead of just getting in the car. With proper diet, exercise, and weight reduction, you can help to prevent obesity.