Type 2 diabetes is a chronic illness that affects millions of people around the world. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when it doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.

While there are certain genetic components to developing type 2 diabetes, there are also several lifestyle factors that can increase your risk for this condition. By making certain lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Here are 15 key risk factors to watch out for:.

1. Age

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as you get older. This is due in part to the fact that as we age, our bodies become less efficient at producing and using insulin.

While diabetes can occur at any age, it is more common in people over the age of 45.

2. Weight

Being overweight or obese is one of the biggest risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. This is because excess body fat can make it harder for your body to produce and use insulin effectively.

If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help reduce your risk for diabetes.

3. Family History

If anyone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you may be at higher risk for developing the condition.

This is because there is a genetic component to type 2 diabetes, and certain genes can increase your risk for the disease.

4. Sedentary Lifestyle

If you lead a sedentary lifestyle and don’t get enough exercise, you may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

This is because physical activity helps your body to use insulin more effectively, and it can also help you maintain a healthy weight. If you are not currently active, try to incorporate more physical activity into your daily routine.

5. Poor Nutrition

A diet that is high in processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars can increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

In contrast, a diet that is rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help reduce your risk for the disease. If you need help developing a healthy eating plan, consider speaking with a registered dietitian.

6. High Blood Pressure

If you have high blood pressure, you may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This is because high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and lead to insulin resistance.

If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage it effectively.

7. High Triglyceride Levels

If you have high levels of triglycerides in your blood, you may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Triglycerides are a type of fat that can be found in foods or produced by the liver.

High triglyceride levels can interfere with insulin function and lead to insulin resistance. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways to manage your triglyceride levels.

8. Gestational Diabetes

If you had gestational diabetes during a previous pregnancy, you may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life. This is because gestational diabetes can damage the pancreas and lead to insulin resistance.

Make sure you discuss this risk with your healthcare provider and take steps to manage your blood sugar levels.

9. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women. It is characterized by high levels of male hormones, irregular periods, and ovarian cysts.

Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance. If you have PCOS, make sure you work with your healthcare provider to manage your condition effectively.

10. Sleep Apnea

Individuals with sleep apnea may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This is because sleep apnea can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels.

If you have sleep apnea, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to manage the condition effectively.

11. African American, Hispanic, and Native American Ethnicity

Individuals of African American, Hispanic, and Native American ethnicity may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

This is due in part to certain genetic factors, as well as lifestyle factors that may be more common in these communities, such as a diet that is high in processed foods and added sugars.

12. Smoking

If you smoke, you may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This is because smoking can interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. If you smoke, consider speaking with your healthcare provider about ways to quit.

13. Stress

Chronic stress can lead to a number of health problems, including an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This is because stress can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels.

If you are under a great deal of stress, try to find ways to manage it effectively, such as through exercise, meditation, or counseling.

14. Certain Medications

Certain medications, such as steroids, beta-blockers, and antipsychotics, can increase your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If you take any of these medications, make sure you discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider.

15. Pre-Diabetes

If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, you are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Pre-diabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes.

If you have pre-diabetes, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to make lifestyle changes that can help prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes is a serious chronic illness that can lead to a number of health problems if left untreated. However, by making certain lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk for developing this condition.

By maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and managing other health conditions, you can take control of your health and reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes.