According to the World Health Organization (WHO), type 2 diabetes is a global health problem that affects millions of people worldwide.

In fact, it is estimated that more than 422 million adults have diabetes, and the number is expected to rise in the coming years. While type 2 diabetes is typically associated with obesity, it is also linked to other factors such as body shape. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how women’s body shapes can affect their risk for type 2 diabetes.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Normally, when you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates from food into glucose.

Your pancreas then produces insulin, which helps your cells take in the glucose and use it for energy. However, if you have type 2 diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or your cells become resistant to insulin, which can cause a buildup of glucose in your bloodstream.

Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, nerve damage, and blindness.

Women’s Body Shapes and Type 2 Diabetes

Research has shown that women’s body shapes can affect their risk for type 2 diabetes.

In particular, studies have found that women who carry more weight around their midsections (apple-shaped) are more likely to develop diabetes than women who carry their weight in their hips and thighs (pear-shaped). This is because fat stored around the abdomen (visceral fat) is more metabolically active than fat stored in other parts of the body, meaning it has a greater effect on insulin resistance and glucose metabolism.

In addition, women with larger waist circumferences (greater than 35 inches) are at increased risk for type 2 diabetes, regardless of their overall body weight.

Other Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes in Women

While body shape is an important risk factor for type 2 diabetes in women, it is not the only one. Other factors that can increase a woman’s risk for diabetes include:.

Age: Women over the age of 45 are at increased risk for diabetes, particularly if they are overweight or have a family history of the disease.
Family history: If a woman has a parent or sibling with diabetes, she is at increased risk for the disease.
Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise can contribute to insulin resistance and an increased risk for diabetes.
Race and ethnicity: Some ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, and Native Americans, have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes.
Gestational diabetes: Women who develop diabetes during pregnancy are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

While some risk factors for type 2 diabetes, such as age and family history, are beyond our control, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease. These include:.

Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight, if necessary, and keeping it off can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower the risk for diabetes.
Eating a healthy diet: Choosing foods that are high in fiber and low in saturated and trans fats can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk for diabetes.
Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk for diabetes.
Managing stress: Chronic stress can increase cortisol levels, which can interfere with insulin sensitivity and increase the risk for diabetes.
Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase insulin resistance and the risk for diabetes, as well as other health problems such as heart disease and cancer.

Conclusion

While type 2 diabetes is a serious health problem, it is also a preventable one. Women who are at risk for diabetes, whether due to body shape or other risk factors, can take steps to reduce their risk and protect their health.

By maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and quitting smoking, women can lower their risk of developing diabetes and enjoy a healthier life.