Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). In Type 2 diabetes:
Insulin Resistance: Your body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin, a hormone that helps glucose enter the cells for energy.- Insufficient Insulin Production: Over time, your pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal.
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Being overweight or obese
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of diabetes
- Unhealthy diet (high in processed foods and sugars)
- Age (risk increases after 45)
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
Symptoms:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
- Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
Complications (if untreated):
- Heart disease and stroke
- Kidney damage
- Nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Vision problems or blindness
We make choices that affect our health every day. Take the following five important steps to achieve a healthy lifestyle to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, or reduce your risk of developing these diseases. Maintain a healthy weight
Combine a good balance of physical activity and healthy eating
Consult your healthcare provider to find out your healthy weight
Learn how to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI)
Eat a healthy diet
Eat a variety of foods
Eat 5 to 10 fruits and vegetables a day (Canada's Food Guide)
Increase your fiber intake
Decrease your fat and salt intake
Limit your alcohol intake
Select appropriate portion sizes
Make sure you're physically active regularly
Be active for at least 30 minutes a day, every day
Choose activities that promote strength, endurance, and flexibility
Find activities you enjoy and can do as a family
How can physical activity help people with type 2 diabetes?
Don't smoke
If you smoke, it's never too late to quit.
Avoid secondhand smoke.
Reduce your stress.
Get enough sleep and rest.
Be active - physical activity is a great way to reduce stress.
Manage your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.
Note: These tips can help prevent diabetes.
