Diabetes and unhealthy habits: How they have no age

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to make insulin, or when the body cannot make good use of the insulin it produces.

There are three main types of diabetes:

● Type 1

Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, but occurs most frequently in children and adolescents.

● Type 2

Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults and accounts for around 90% of all diabetes cases. When you have type 2 diabetes, your body does not make good use of the insulin that it produces.

● Gestation

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a type of diabetes that consists of high blood glucose during pregnancy and is associated with complications to both mother and child. GDM usually disappears after pregnancy but women affected and their children are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Here are some ways to avoid getting diabetes.

■ CUT SUGAR AND REFINED CARBS FROM YOUR DIET

Eating foods high in refined carbs and sugar increases blood sugar and insulin levels, which may lead to diabetes over time. Avoiding these foods may help reduce your risk.

■ WORK OUT REGULARLY

Performing physical activity on a regular basis can increase insulin secretion and sensitivity, which may help prevent diabetes.

■ DRINK WATER AS YOUR PRIMARY BEVERAGE

Drinking water instead of other beverages may help control blood sugar and insulin levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes.

■ LOSE WEIGHT IF YOU'RE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE

Carrying excess weight, particularly in the abdominal area, increases the likelihood of developing diabetes. Losing weight may significantly reduce the risk of diabetes.

■ QUIT SMOKING

Smoking is strongly linked to the risk of diabetes, especially in heavy smokers. Quitting has been shown to reduce this risk over time.

■ FOLLOW A VERY-LOW-CARB DIET

Following a ketogenic or very-low-carb diet can help keep blood sugar and insulin levels under control, which may protect against diabetes.

■ WATCH PORTION SIZES

Avoiding large portion sizes can help reduce insulin and blood sugar levels and decrease the risk of diabetes.

■ AVOID SEDENTARY BEHAVIORS.

Avoiding sedentary behaviors like excessive sitting has been shown to reduce your risk of getting diabetes.

■ EAT A HIGH-FIBER DIET

Consuming a good fiber source at each meal can help prevent spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, which may help reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

■ OPTIMIZE VITAMIN D LEVELS

Minimizing processed foods and focusing on whole foods with protective effects on health may help decrease the risk of diabetes.

■ DRINK COFFEE OR TEA

Drinking coffee or tea may help reduce blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes.

■ CONSIDER TAKING NATURAL HERBS

There are a few herbs that may help increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the likelihood of diabetes progression