What Are The Risk Factors For Developing Diabetes?

July 12, 2024

Diabetes is a long-term condition that results from the body inability to regulate glucose in the blood and it impacts millions of people. If not well managed, it can cause severe health risks such as heart problems, stroke, kidney malfunction, and nerve dysfunction. Knowledge of factors that put one at a risk of developing Diabetes is important in preventing the condition and possibly treating the condition at an early stage. In this article, we discuss the various factors that may lead to different types of Diabetes, especially Type 2 Diabetes, which is more prevalent.

This is a recording of our Wellness Wednesday presentation, “Let’s Talk About Diabetes”, to a group of attendees who learnt about Diabetes and its natural remedies. Set aside time to watch and learn.

Types of Diabetes

Before exploring the risk factors, it’s important to differentiate between the three main types of Diabetes. They are Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, and gestational Diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes

A type of auto-immune disease which causes the body to attack the insulin producing cells of the pancreas. It usually begins during childhood or adolescence.

Type 2 Diabetes

A metabolic disease where the body’s cells are unable to effectively use insulin or where the body does not produce enough insulin. It is often associated with one’s lifestyle and is known to affect adults more.

Gestational Diabetes

It happens during pregnancy and on most occasions, it ceases once the woman gives birth. However, it raises the possibility of the mother developing Type 2 Diabetes in the later years of her life.

In this video, we explain what diabetes is and what causes it. If you are experiencing this or know someone who is, watch and share our video, “Explanation of Diabetes.”, with them.

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity and Overweight

Being overweight or obese are among the significant risk factors for developing Type 2 Diabetes. Obesity is defined as having more than 30 percent body fat, and having fat around the abdomen specifically makes the body less sensitive to insulin which controls blood sugar levels. It has been found that people who are obese as defined by their body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop the condition.

Physical Inactivity

Inactivity can also contribute to a person developing Type 2 Diabetes as they become more prone to the condition when they lead a sedentary lifestyle. Exercise plays a crucial role in weight management, aids in using glucose as energy and enables the body’s cells to respond more effectively to insulin. A sedentary lifestyle is not healthy since it leads to obesity and insulin resistance, which are risk factors for Diabetes.

Unhealthy Diet

It is important to note that food has a close relationship with the development of Diabetes. High consumption of processed foods and unhealthy fats, and high fructose intake results in obesity and insulin dysfunction. Saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugar raise blood glucose levels, which are the causes of Diabetes.

Family History and Genetics

Another factor that is strongly associated with Type 2 Diabetes is genetics. Diabetes risk is also higher if a parent or sibling has the condition. Certain gene variations may influence the ability of cells to produce insulin or to utilise it and thus, predispose a person to the ailment.

Age

It is important to note that Type 2 Diabetes is more likely to develop later in life. This is because people are likely to become less physically active, have reduced muscle mass, and even become overweight as they age. The chances of getting the disease increase after the age of forty-five.

Ethnic Background

Some ethnic groups are more prone to developing Type 2 Diabetes. These groups include those with African, Hispanis, Natives/Indigenous and/or Asian ethnicity. The reasons for this are not well understood, but may be related to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

Individuals with high blood pressure and those with high cholesterol levels are also likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes. Hypertension affects the blood vessels and the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas, while a high lipid profile, specifically LDL and low HDL cholesterol can cause insulin resistance.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, which is a disorder that is associated with hormonal imbalances and metabolic issues. PCOS increases insulin resistance levels and therefore makes them more vulnerable to the risks posed by type 2 Diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes History

Gestational Diabetes is also known to increase the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes in women after they are done with their pregnancy. Also, their children may be at a higher risk of obesity and Diabetes compared to other children.

Have you tried everything to help control your diabetes and lead a better quality of life?

Do you sometimes wonder, how other people who have diabetes, are able to live a much more fulfilled life? Then our FREE Best Ways to Treat Diabetes Guide is must for you to learn the best proven ways to treat your diabetes.

Check out our very affordable Diabetes Introductory and Diabetes Advanced courses.

Do you or someone you know have Diabetes or is Pre-Diabetic or chooses to remain unhealthy? Watch and learn from our informative video and take action today. Learn “What Are The Main Causes Of Diabetes?“

Risk Factors for Type 1 Diabetes

Family History

Type 1 Diabetes is less common than Type 2 Diabetes but its risk is higher if one has a family history of it. Some people have a predisposition to developing the disease due to certain DNA markers.

Viral Infections

Some of the viral infections that are strongly associated with Type 1 Diabetes include Coxsackievirus B, mumps, and cytomegalovirus. These infections may activate the autoimmune process that leads to the destruction of insulin producing cells.

Geography

Type 1 Diabetes prevalence also differs by region, with the higher rates in northern Europe and the lower rates in Asia and South America. These differences could be due to viral exposure, diet, climate and other variables.

Early Diet

Research conducted indicates that there is a possibility that early exposure to cow’s milk or cereal proteins in infancy may predispose a person to develop Type 1 Diabetes. But even this relationship is not conclusive and is still under investigation.

Risk Factors for Gestational Diabetes

Obesity

Obesity further increases the risk for gestational Diabetes in women who are already overweight or obese before getting pregnant. This risk can be prevented if diet and exercise is managed before getting pregnant to achieve a healthy weight.

Age

Pregnant women who are aged 25 years and above are prone to developing gestational Diabetes. This risk is even higher after the age of 35 years.

Family or Personal History

Genetic factors such as a history of gestational Diabetes or a family history of type 2 Diabetes also predispose women to gestational Diabetes. Risk factors include having previously delivered a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds.

Ethnicity

As in Type 2 Diabetes, women with African, Hispanic, Native, and/or Asian ethnicity are more likely to have gestational Diabetes.

Can Iridology Detect Diabetes? Diabetes affects at least one in ten persons worldwide. It would therefore be very useful if Diabetes or Pre-Diabetes can be detected early so that it can be prevented or treated. Watch our insightful video to learn more.

Conclusion

It is important to be able to identify the potential causes of Diabetes for proper prevention and early detection. Some risk factors, for instance, genetic predispositions and age, cannot be altered, but you have the power and responsibility to change and manage other risk factors like your diet, physical activity, and weight. Screening tests and early management of risk factors can prevent the development of Diabetes and its complications. Thus, people can reduce the risks of developing this chronic disease by adopting specific lifestyle changes and being aware of the risk factors.

Are you or someone you know struggling with Diabetes management? Look no further! Download our FREE Diabetes guide book, “Best Ways To Treat Diabetes” and learn valuable tips, tricks and insights to help you deal with the complexities of Diabetes without fear. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a seasoned veteran, you’ll gain a lot of knowledge from our guide that can help you turn your life around!

Embark on a transformative journey towards better health when you purchase our book, “THE DIABETES SOLUTION: A 28 DAY ACTION PLAN FOR LOWERING BLOOD SUGAR NATURALLY”. A wealth of information derived from years of experience in helping people with Diabetes and other health issues can be found in our #1 bestselling book on Amazon. Drawing from a diverse clientele spanning continents and cultures, we have curated a comprehensive action plan rooted in natural remedies and time-tested practices. This book is an indispensable companion, whether you are Diabetic, Prediabetic or looking for preventive action. Give yourself the power to take control of your health and see remarkable results, from nutritious recipes to invaluable advice on living a healthy life. You will be guided by the “THE DIABETES SOLUTION” to a healthier and happier future!

To learn more about Diabetes, check out our other related blogs:

How To Treat Diabetes Using Iridology

What Happens If You Ignore Diabetes?

Can Iridology Detect Diabetes?

Practical Tips For Preventing and Managing Obesity Related Diabetes

Can Eating Too Much Sugar Cause Diabetes?

What Is The Main Cause Of Diabetes?