Have you ever heard the phrase “you can tell a lot about a person by their handshake”? Well, turns out, there may be some truth to it – especially when it comes to your risk for diabetes.

Handshake Secrets

Researchers at the University of Manchester in the UK recently conducted a study that found that grip strength – as measured by a handshake – may be an indicator of someone’s risk for type 2 diabetes.

The Study

The study, which was published in the journal PLOS Medicine, analyzed data from more than 450,000 participants from around the world. The researchers found a significant correlation between weaker grip strength and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.

How Grip Strength Relates to Diabetes

So, how exactly does grip strength relate to diabetes risk? According to the researchers, grip strength is a useful measure of overall muscle strength. And muscle strength, in turn, is linked to a person’s metabolic health.

Individuals with weaker muscle strength may have a harder time regulating their blood sugar and insulin levels, which can ultimately lead to type 2 diabetes.

What This Means for You

If you’re concerned about your risk for type 2 diabetes, taking a close look at your muscle strength – and your grip strength specifically – may be a good starting point.

There are a few simple ways to test your grip strength at home, including using a hand grip strengthener or simply squeezing a tennis ball for a set amount of time.

Other Indicators of Diabetes Risk

Grip strength isn’t the only physical indicator of diabetes risk – there are a few other things to keep an eye on as well:.

Body Mass Index (BMI): A BMI over 25 may indicate a higher risk for diabetes
Waist Circumference: A waist circumference over 35 inches for women or 40 inches for men may indicate a higher risk for diabetes
Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can be a sign of insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes

The Importance of Early Detection

One of the biggest challenges with diabetes is catching it early enough to prevent complications.

That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye out for these physical indicators of diabetes risk, and to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have.

If you do end up being diagnosed with diabetes, the sooner you know, the sooner you can take steps to manage your condition and prevent complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease.

Conclusion

While a handshake may seem like a simple thing, it could actually hold some important clues about your overall health.

So, the next time you go to shake someone’s hand, take a moment to evaluate your own grip strength – it just might help you detect your risk for type 2 diabetes.