Obesity and type 2 diabetes are two of the most prevalent health problems worldwide. The number of people living with these conditions is rising every year.

In fact, according to the World Health Organization, the global prevalence of obesity has tripled since 1975, and as of 2016, 13% of the world’s adult population was living with obesity.

Obesity is a complex condition that involves an excess of body fat. It is usually caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as diet, sedentary lifestyle, and certain medical conditions.

Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects how the body processes blood sugar. It is usually caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.

A Dangerous Combination: Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association, people who are overweight or obese are up to 80% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

This is because excess body fat can cause insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. This, in turn, can lead to high blood sugar levels and the development of type 2 diabetes.

However, the link between obesity and type 2 diabetes is not just limited to the development of the condition. Obesity can also worsen the complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Complications of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes can lead to a number of complications, some of which can be life-threatening. Here are some of the most common complications of type 2 diabetes:.

Cardiovascular disease

People with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease and stroke.

This is because high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of plaque buildup, which can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart and brain.

Neuropathy

Type 2 diabetes can cause nerve damage, which can lead to a range of symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. This can also increase the risk of foot ulcers and infections.

Nephropathy

Type 2 diabetes can damage the kidneys and impair their ability to filter waste from the blood. Over time, this can lead to kidney failure and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Retinopathy

Type 2 diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, the part of the eye that senses light. This can lead to vision loss and blindness.

Why Obesity Worsens Type 2 Diabetes Complications

Obesity can make the complications associated with type 2 diabetes worse in a number of ways. Here are some of the most common reasons why:.

It Increases Inflammation

Obesity is known to increase inflammation levels in the body. This can worsen the inflammatory processes that are already at work in type 2 diabetes, leading to additional damage to the blood vessels and organs.

It Impairs Insulin Sensitivity

Obesity can worsen insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to use insulin effectively. This can lead to higher blood sugar levels, which can worsen the complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

It Raises Blood Pressure

Obesity is often associated with high blood pressure, which can worsen the complications of type 2 diabetes. High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney damage.

It Increases Blood Lipids

Obesity can lead to high levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and worsen the complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Managing Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Managing obesity is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation levels, and lower blood pressure and lipid levels.

Here are some tips for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes:.

Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet that is low in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats can help manage obesity and type 2 diabetes. Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Get regular exercise

Regular exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation levels, and promote weight loss. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling.

Monitor blood sugar levels

Monitoring blood sugar levels is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes. Your healthcare provider can help you develop a monitoring plan that is right for you.

Take medications as prescribed

There are a variety of medications that can help manage type 2 diabetes, including insulin, oral medications, and injectable medications. It is important to take these medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Work with a healthcare team

Managing obesity and type 2 diabetes can be challenging, but working with a healthcare team can help. A team may include a primary care physician, endocrinologist, dietitian, and exercise physiologist.

Conclusion

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are two major health problems that are closely linked. Obesity can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and worsen the complications associated with the condition.

Managing obesity is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes, and involves a combination of healthy eating, regular exercise, monitoring blood sugar levels, taking medications as prescribed, and working with a healthcare team.