How You Can Prevent Diabetes

There are several ways to prevent diabetes. First, what is diabetes? It is the most common disease of the endocrine system. Diabetes happens when the body is not able to regulate blood sugars. There are two types of diabetes - type 1 and type 2. It is believed that the disease is genetic - if it runs in your family, you have a high risk of developing it as well. Women who are pregnant also have higher chances of becoming diabetic due to their condition and hormonal changes. This is called gestational diabetes. Through simple lifestyle changes, discipline and dedication, it is possible to avoid - or perhaps delay - the development of the said disease. Here are some of the ways on how you can prevent diabetes.

• Know what your diabetic risk is. Genetically, more people are more prone to it. When you do now that diabetes runs in the family, you have to be extra conscious about your lifestyle and make necessary changes as needed.
  
• Most people diagnosed with diabetes are actually overweight. Excess fat - particularly around the waist - can increase a person's risk of having diabetes. So in line with this, people should exercise regularly and stay physically active. This can be through running, jogging, swimming, cycling or any other activity you enjoy. Aside from keeping the weight down, improving circulation and the body fit, exercising is also a way to take a break from stress.
  
• Diet is another important factor in preventing diabetes. Start having a balanced diet, one that is low in fat and sugars. Limit your intake of meat, poultry and fish and instead eat more whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables. Recent studies have shown that the pigments which give fruits and vegetables their colors stimulate natural insulin production. You should cut down on your sugar and salt intake - if you cannot totally remove it from your diet.
• Have regular check ups with your doctor. Because around 73% of diabetics also suffer from high blood pressure, it is important to constantly have their blood pressure checked. Besides that, cholesterol and triglycerides should also be regularly tested. In fact, people who are over the age of 45 should undergo blood glucose measurement tests every three years.
  

Studies have proven that with proper diet and regular exercise, diabetes can be prevented. Whether or not you have higher risk of having diabetes, it is ideal to practice these in order to become healthy in general. You should also ask your doctor for more tips on preventing diabetes.