Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease today. And according to the Center for Disease Control, out of the 30 million Americans with the condition, 1 in 4 don’t know they have it.

The good news is that the rate of new cases being reported since 2008 has decreased each year. This is due to the fact that many new diabetes self-management education and support programs have been implemented across the U.S. to help boost prevention efforts.

Still, because people are living longer with diabetes, the number of cases continue to increase. That’s why prevention and maintenance are so important to lessen or decrease the chances of getting it.

Understanding what causes diabetes is, is the first step in knowing how to prevent it.  Below, Freedom Home Care created a list of factors that can actually increase your risk of developing the disease.

Family History, Age, Gender & Race

Although these are predetermined factors, there are things you can do to help stay in the best possible overall health.  We’ll discuss this more.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Even though it disappears once the mother has the baby, the likelihood of it happening again during pregnancy is 2 in 3, while the same woman is 7 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

High Blood Pressure

Most people with diabetes have high blood pressure, too. In fact, 2 in 3 people reported having both conditions.

Overweight

The risk for developing type 2 diabetes increases with weight gain. Being overweight also places you at risk for other serious diseases including stroke.

High Cholesterol

Diabetes can occur with low HDL (good cholesterol) levels. People with high triglyceride levels are also more susceptible to diabetes.

While there is currently no way to prevent type 1 diabetes, you can ward off type 2, prediabetes and gestational diabetes, by managing your symptoms.

Physical Activity

Regular physical fitness is ideal for anyone – especially patients with diabetes. Not only does physical activity help promote weight loss, it also helps keep blood sugar low and increase sensitivity to insulin. Exerts recommend exercising at least 30 minutes a day for optimal health.

Eating Right

A fiber-rich diet is one that includes beans, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps lower the risk of heart disease, while encouraging weight loss. Whole grains – found in foods like breads, pastas and cereals – help stabilize sugar levels.

Schedule Regular Doctor Visits

Diabetes prevention requires being in tune with your body and your health. Glucose screening is recommended by the Diabetes Association if you are have a sedentary lifestyle, are 45 and older, overweight, and have a family history of diabetes.

If you have a loved one who needs assistance with managing Diabetes, we can help.  Contact us today for more information!