The standard handshake is a common social custom across various cultures and is often used as a greeting, a sign of respect, trust, or goodwill.

However, according to recent studies, a limp handshake could be a sign of an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin hormone or cannot use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the body to regulate and use glucose for energy.

When the body is unable to produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can lead to a range of complications such as vision loss, nerve damage, kidney damage, and cardiovascular disease.

The Link between Handshakes and Diabetes

One study published in the journal PLOS One found that the strength of a person’s grip can be a predictor of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

The study involved analyzing the handshake strength of over 13,000 adults aged between 20 and 90 years old. The researchers found that those with a weaker handshake were more likely to have elevated blood sugar levels and had an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those with a stronger grip.

Another study, published in the journal BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care, found that men with a weak handshake had a 50% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those with a stronger grip.

The study involved analyzing the grip strength of over 400,000 men from the UK Biobank study. The researchers believe that grip strength can be a marker of overall muscle strength, which is an important factor in insulin sensitivity, a key component of diabetes risk.

Other Factors That Affect Diabetes Risk

Although grip strength and handshakes have been linked to diabetes risk, there are several other factors that can contribute to the development of diabetes. These include:.

Family history of diabetes
Obesity or overweight
Physical inactivity
High blood pressure
High cholesterol levels
Smoking
Poor diet

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

There are several lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These include:.

Maintaining a healthy body weight
Engaging in regular physical exercise
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein
Reducing the intake of sugary and processed foods
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

In addition to lifestyle changes, early diagnosis and treatment of prediabetes (a state where blood sugar levels are elevated, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes) can also help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

Treatment may involve lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise or medication to improve insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion

While a limp handshake may not be a definitive indicator of diabetes risk, it can offer some insight into overall muscle strength and the potential for insulin resistance.

Other factors such as family history, poor diet, and physical inactivity also contribute significantly to diabetes risk. Making positive lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise can help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment of prediabetes can also help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.