It is a general fact that shorter people are more prone to diabetes. According to research, people who are shorter in height are more likely to be insulin resistant compared to taller individuals of the same weight.

The risk for developing type 2 diabetes is also twice as much for people who are below 5 feet tall. While height is a major factor in determining one’s susceptibility to diabetes, there are several other factors associated with it.

The Science Behind Height and Diabetes

The height plays a key role in revealing one’s tendencies toward certain ailments. When it comes to Type 2 Diabetes, the chief factor that has a significant connection is the Body Mass Index (BMI) of a person.

Researchers have found that the greater the height of a person, the lesser will be their BMI. This reduction in BMI results in a lower risk of developing diseases like diabetes.

Although the genetics of an individual also play a role in this, the height along with the corresponding BMI is an essential factor that leads to the development of diabetes.

Other Factors Associated with Diabetes

The height of a person is just one piece of the puzzle and doesn’t tell the whole story, other risk factors include:.

: Weight

As mentioned before higher BMI and weight is an indicator of higher risk of diabetes. As individuals gain more weight, their body’s ability to produce insulin becomes compromised.

This leads to an increase in blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

: Physical Activity

Physical activity is another factor that significantly contributes to lowering one’s risk of diabetes. Lack of physical activity can increase the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and other chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes.

Physical activity helps in controlling weight gain and maintaining normal insulin levels, reducing the risk of diabetes in the process.

: Diet

Diet is a vital component that affects one’s risk of diabetes. People who consume high amounts of carbohydrates, processed foods, and sugar tend to have a higher risk of developing the disease.

On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help decrease the risk of diabetes.

: Stress

Stress increases the level of stress hormones like cortisol in the body, leading to increased blood sugar levels. Chronic stress can lead to insulin resistance and, ultimately, diabetes.

: Age

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes increase with age. As one ages, the body tends to gain more weight, become less active, and have decreased insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

: Gender

Several studies have showcased that women are more likely to develop diabetes compared to men. This can be due to hormonal imbalances and due to the natural cycle of life.

: Family History

Genetics is also an essential factor that plays a role in the development of diabetes. If someone in the family has diabetes, the risk of developing the disease is increased.

Conclusion

While height is a major risk factor in determining one’s susceptibility to diabetes, it is not the only factor that should be considered.

Other factors like weight, physical activity, diet, stress, age, gender, and family history also play a crucial role. Height can be an indication of the risk but doesn’t have to be a determinant of one’s health outcomes.

Therefore, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and regularly check sugar levels to reduce the risk of diabetes and lead a healthy life.