Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that causes a person's blood sugar level to become dangerously high. People with diabetes Type 2 may produce sufficient insulin to regulate their glucose levels; however, changes in their cells may make them unable to use insulin to transfer sugar from their blood and into their cells, where it is stored for later use.
What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?
Although scientists have an understanding as to what causes Type 2 diabetes, medical research continues to provide new information on treating and diagnosing Type 2 diabetes. It also gives new insight into the different causes of Type 2 diabetes. For example, researchers recently discovered that low birth weight and maternal malnutrition are likely causes of Type 2 diabetes. In general, however, unhealthy lifestyle choices, combined with a family history of the disease, are thought to be the most common risk factors.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle factors, namely a poor diet and a lack of exercise, greatly increase your chance of developing diabetes. A diet that is low in fiber and high in saturated fats and carbohydrates, along with a sedentary lifestyle, are considered significant risk factors for diabetes. Obesity has also been linked to Type 2 diabetes. With the help a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, you can decrease your risk for diabetes.
Aside from maintaining a healthy body weight and adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine, some other lifestyle changes may help you to avoid Type 2 diabetes. In 2010, researchers analyzed eleven previous research studies and reported that drinks that are sweetened with sugar contribute to the development of diabetes in two ways. The investigators determined that sugary drinks not only cause obesity, a risk factor for diabetes, but also increase the body's glycemic load, leading to changes in cells that make them less able to utilize insulin. It's possible that chemicals in the environment may also cause diabetes. Recently, a link has been found between diabetes and bisphenol A, which is found in some plastics.
Other Medical Problems
Some common medical conditions may also cause Type 2 diabetes. Obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are common conditions that have been linked to diabetes. If you regularly take steroids or other medications, or suffer from a chronic disease, ask your doctor if you are at increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Family History
When diagnosing Type 2 diabetes, doctors look closely at family history. If you have family members with diabetes, you are much more likely to develop it yourself. You're at a greater risk if it's a close relative like your father or sister. About a quarter of the people who are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.