Healthy Weight and Diabetes

Obesity is the number one contributing cause of diabetes today. Ninety percent of individuals with Type 2 Diabetes are overweight. Obesity complicates the care of diabetes, which can make treatment with medications less effective. Being overweight and having diabetes will also increase the risk for diabetes related complications such as kidney failure, blindness and heart disease. Results from a large study showed that people at risk for diabetes who lost a small amount of weight and became more active for three years prevented or delayed the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.

A healthy weight will help you

  • Lower blood glucose and pressure if they are higher than normal.
  • Improve your blood fats if they are not in a healthy range.
  • Delay or prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes

Tips for people with diabetes

  • Talk to your doctor before beginning a physical activity and nutrition program.
  • Have your insulin and medication needs evaluated by a doctor or diabetes educator.
  • Exercise aerobically; walking, swimming, biking and running for at least 30 minutes a day to lower your blood pressure.
  • Monitor any weight lifting, or other anaerobic exercise with your health care provide as it can affect your blood sugar many hours later.
  • Check your blood sugar level regularly, and let your doctor know if you have any concerns regarding your level.