Discuss how type 2 diabetes can be prevented

Answer 1

The effects of weight loss and exercise in preventing type 2 diabetes can be quite dramatic. In one large study that took place over a three-year period, people with prediabetes reduced their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58% by losing around 7% of body weight and exercising for 150 minutes a week in a structured lifestyle program. Reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes related to participation in the program was 71% for people over the age of 60 years. These reductions in risk were greater than that achieved by use of a common medication (metformin) for blood glucose control (31% reduction in risk). The type 2 diabetes preventive effects of participation in the program and weight-loss maintenance have persisted for at least 15 years.
Diets rich in whole-grain and high-fiber foods are protective against the development of type 2 diabetes and appear to aid weight loss. Components of high-fiber, whole-grain foods raise blood glucose levels marginally and appear to provide nutrients and other biologically active substances that lessen the risk of this disease. Consumption of regular or decaffeinated coffee (1 to 4 cups daily) and moderate alcohol intake (one to two drinks per day if appropriate) also appear to increase insulin sensitivity and decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Vitamin D supports insulin production by the pancreas. Adequate vitamin D status has been associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes may also be prevented or postponed by not gaining weight during the young adult years. Weight gains of 10 to 15 pounds between the ages of 25 and 40 have been found to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes sevenfold compared to not gaining weight or gaining it after the age of 40.