Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects over 30 million Americans. It is a lifelong condition, but you can manage it through diet, exercise, and medication.

However, it is essential to know your risk of diabetes so that you can take early preventive measures. In this article, we will share nine easy steps to discover your diabetes risk.

Step 1: Know Your Family History

If anyone in your family has diabetes, you are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Therefore, it is essential to know your family history. Talk to your parents, grandparents, and siblings to find out if anyone has diabetes.

If yes, note their age when they developed the condition, and type of diabetes they have – type 1 or type 2.

Step 2: Check Your Age

Diabetes is common in people over 45 years of age. However, it is becoming increasingly common among younger adults and even children. If you are older than 45, you must check your diabetes risk.

Step 3: Monitor Your Weight

Your weight can significantly impact your diabetes risk. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on your weight.

Calculate your body mass index (BMI), a measure of your weight in relation to your height. If your BMI is above 25, you may be at risk of diabetes.

Step 4: Check Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can increase your risk of diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to keep your blood pressure in check. Check your blood pressure regularly, and if it is consistently above 140/90 mmHg, you should consult with your doctor.

Step 5: Assess Your Diet

Your diet plays a crucial role in managing your diabetes risk. A diet high in sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce your risk. Assess your diet and try to make healthier choices.

Step 6: Check Your Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels can increase your risk of diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your cholesterol levels. Check your total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels.

If they are high, you must take steps to reduce them, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising, and taking medications.

Step 7: Monitor Your Activity Levels

Lack of physical activity can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your activity levels.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week.

Step 8: Check Your Sleep Habits

Studies have shown that poor sleep habits can increase your risk of diabetes. Therefore, it is essential to monitor your sleep habits. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of quality sleep every night.

Step 9: Get a Blood Sugar Test

The most accurate way to check your diabetes risk is to get a blood sugar test. There are two types of blood sugar tests – fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Both tests require you to fast for at least eight hours before the test. Your doctor will advise you on which test to take depending on your risk factors and medical history.

Conclusion

Knowing your diabetes risk is essential to take early preventive measures. By following these nine steps, you can discover your diabetes risk and take steps to prevent or manage the condition. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.