Diabetes does not develop from one day to the next; it develops slowly and gradually. Besides a genetic disposition, one of the most important risk factors is a long-term unhealthy lifestyle. Many people develop diabetes but remain unaware of it for a long time. They therefore see no reason to take action against the impending illness.
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Diabetes is a metabolic condition. There are two types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2. 90% of all diabetes patients suffer from type 2 diabetes. In this case either the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin effectively. Insulin moves glucose out of the blood and into cells, where it's broken down to produce energy. If this process fails, the glucose remains in the bloodstream and the blood sugar level rises. This can have serious consequences and may even lead to a heart attack or stroke.
There are three main ways to reduce the risk of developing diabetes:
Everyone should take around half an hour's exercise a day. Exercise means any activity which accelerates your pulse and breathing and makes you sweat.
Where nutrition is concerned you should:
Keeping a regular eye on your weight is important. People of normal weight should avoid putting on any additional weight. If you are overweight, it is worth trying to reduce your body weight slightly. Reducing your body weight by five to ten percent will significantly reduce your risk of contracting diabetes.
If you would like further important information about diabetes prevention or would like to know how high your risk of developing diabetes is and how SWICA can assist you in addressing this issue, please visit our website at:
Diabetes prevention – the time to act is now
14.11.2018