Type 2 Diabetes – So It’s In Your Family? You Can Still Beat It !

 

Research shows that there is a genetic link in the development of type 2 diabetes. However, having a family history of the disease doesn’t mean you will get it. Numerous reported cases of identical twins show where one develops Type two Diabetes and the other one does not. It appears most likely that the genetics mix with lifestyle issues and that is the trigger for getting Diabetes 2. Many family members develop eating and exercising habits often as a group. If your parents didn’t eat healthy foods, you likely will not. If your parents didn’t exercise regularly, you likely will not. Mix that with a familial link and you have trouble.

 

Ethnic background appears to play a role in the genetics as well. In the United States, those of African American, Hispanic, Native American or Pacific Islander descent will have a higher risk of developing Type two diabetes. However, it is still a matter of genetics mixing with the wrong lifestyle choices. Everyone has the choice to make changes to their lifestyle in order to prevent the onslaught of this disease. It is a matter of being educated and taking the right steps.

 

How do you prevent the development of type 2 diabetes? The first factor is revving up your physical activity levels. The more you move the lower your blood glucose drops. Exercise also helps decrease insulin resistance. Losing weight is another factor to put into the mix. Even a modest weight drop of 5 to 10% of your body weight will dramatically lower your risk of developing diabetes. Adding the right foods to your diet will also help. Fiber and whole grains help the body to deal with elevated glucose levels. Apples are fantastic due to the fact hat they come with pectin built in. Pectin is a natural insulin regulator. Other fruits and vegetables help as well.

 

Monitoring your health is another way to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes. Let your doctor know about your family’s history with diabetes. Ask to have regular testing to make sure your glucose levels remain in the normal range. If your doctor detects the rise of glucose levels, he can recommend ways to lower those levels before they become a diagnosis of pre-diabetes or diabetes. The worst thing someone with a family history of Diabetes can do is ignore the possibilities. Diabetes sneaks up and can kill silently. Avoiding it requires vigilance and making the correct choices early enough to do some good.

 

Tagged with: Beat It • Diabetes • genetic link • Type 2

Filed under: Diabetes

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