About half of the persons aged 65 and above in the U.S. have prediabetes, whereas many others remain undiagnosed. Certain risk factors for diabetes are manageable through lifestyle changes; hence, known as modifiable risk factors. However, other risk factors are manageable even with the right modifications. In this post, El Centro diabetes specialist Dr. Prabhdeep Singh discusses some of the common modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for diabetes. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Family History
Some diabetes risk factors are passed down from parents or close relatives. If you have a diabetic blood relative, your risk of having diabetes is greatly raised. Discuss your family’s medical history with your physician to determine its ramifications for you.
2. Ethic Background or Race
Research shows that specific ethnic backgrounds or races are more susceptible to diabetes than others. If you are a Hispanic-American or Latino, African-American, Native- or Asian American, you are at greater risk of acquiring diabetes.
3. Age
As you age, your danger for prediabetes and Type II diabetes rises. Type II diabetes often arises in middle-aged adults, typically after 40 years. Nevertheless, specialists are diagnosing more adolescents and kids with Type II diabetes.
4. Gestational Diabetes
Approximately 10% of American women have gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that could develop throughout pregnancy. Even if a female’s blood glucose levels decrease after having a child, her chance of developing type II diabetes remains higher later on.
5. Diet
You should consume healthy food portions. Diet is among the most significant manageable risk factors for Type II diabetes and prediabetes. Generally, your diet should include a healthy balance of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, vegetable oils, seeds, and unsalted nuts. A good diet must substitute saturated fats with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats and avoid sweetened beverages, sodium, and refined carbs.
6. Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption can inflame the pancreas and reduce its ability to generate sufficient insulin. Alcohol could induce liver damage and increases the amount of carbohydrates and sugar in the diet, which should be utilized or stored in fats. Limit your alcohol consumption, which implies ladies are limited to one drink a day and males two.
7. Weight
Diabetes is more likely to occur in persons who are obese or overweight. Besides regular physical activity, losing 5-10% of your body weight can considerably reduce your chances of acquiring diabetes. As your weight falls, your risk reduces further. Therefore, make a solid plan to maintain healthy body weight.
8. Blood Pressure
Besides harming your heart health, uncontrolled hypertension is often associated with diabetes-related problems. Patients with hypertension and diabetes should keep their blood pressure under 120/80 mm Hg. During your consultation, Dr. Singh will recommend the best techniques to ensure your hypertension does not spiral out of control, be it diet modifications or healthy exercise routines.
Do not dismiss the risk factors for diabetes. While some factors are beyond your control, most are controllable with simple lifestyle modifications. Patients with one or more of the risk factors highlighted above should arrange a visit with Dr. Prabhdeep Singh. Dr. Singh can help you create a plan to avoid diabetes or, for already diabetic patients, assist them in managing it. Arrange an appointment through mobile or book online today.