Diabetes is a silent killer. It is a chronic condition which affects the way in which body metabolizes sugar. In type 2 diabetes, the body either resists the insulin effects or does not produce enough insulin to regulate the movement of sugar into the cells.

Diabetes can often creep up with symptoms many people unwittingly ignore. According to the American diabetic association, about 8 million of total 29 million cases of diabetes in the country remain undiagnosed!

Diabetes Symptoms (Type 2)

Early stage type 2 diabetes symptoms include dry mouth, an increase in the frequency of urination, fatigue, blurry vision, and increased thirst.

It is extremely important to treat and manage this disease as it has been shown to increase the risk of developing other chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and infection.

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes

It is very important to know about the risk factors to prevent the damage it can cause. While several of these factors are preventable, some are not.

1) Weight

This is the first and the most important risk factor for type 2 diabetes. An increase of fat in the body increases the resistance of the cells to insulin. Being overweight does mean that you are diabetic but it does increase your risk for developing it.

2) Family history

If your parents or sibling suffer from diabetes, the chances of you getting the disease increase. While genetics are surely important, in recent years, some health experts are suggesting that this might be more because of inherited habits, family habits, and our built environment. After all, we can’t change our genes.

3) Fat distribution

If your body has a tendency to store fat in and around the abdomen more than your hips and thighs, you are more at risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Learn more about 4 drinks that can help tackle belly fat.

4) Sedentary lifestyle

Being physically active is very important to maintain a normal weight. It also increases glucose intake for energy and makes the cells sensitive to insulin. A person with a sedentary lifestyle and no physical activity is at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Read these tips on how to stay active in spite of having a desk job.

5) Race

Though the matter remains unclear,  people of certain races including African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Asians, and Hispanics, are at a higher genetic risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

6) Age

As you age, the chances of developing type 2 diabetes also increase. The reason can be decreased physical activity, weight gain, and loss of muscle mass.

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