Experts believe the number of people living with diabetes will rise dramatically over the next 30 years. Show
If current trends continue, according to 2010 projections from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three adults may have the disease by 2050. More than 88 million American adults now have prediabetes, according to the CDC. Prediabetes is a condition marked by above-normal blood sugar levels that aren't high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. If there's a silver lining to these alarming statistics, it's that there's plenty you can do to prevent type 2 diabetes or slow its progression, and that includes eating a balanced diet. “Maintaining a healthy weight is important for everyone, but especially someone who has type 2 diabetes,” says Kimberly Rose-Francis, RDN, CDCES, a certified diabetes care and education specialist in Sebring, Florida. “Losing weight can help to reduce insulin resistance and may even delay or prevent complications from arising.” RELATED: 10 Diabetes Care Tips During the Coronavirus Pandemic Here are 10 sound diet principles that can keep your average blood sugars from creeping upward, among other health benefits. RELATED: 8 Steps for Weight Loss Success if You Have Type 2 Diabetes RELATED: The Best and Worst Fats for Heart Health RELATED: Study Suggests Why a Plant-Based Diet May Help Prevent Type 2 Diabetes RELATED: 8 Diabetes-Friendly Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner RELATED: 12 Tips for Preventing Dehydration A prediabetes regimen also includes regular exercise — both aerobic and strength training — to help you get to a healthy weight and maintain it once you're there, says Borcik. Plan for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week and strength training two to three times per week, according to the CDC. Borcik also suggests sneaking exercise into your daily activities by parking farther from the entrance at the mall or your office building, using the stairs instead of elevators, and taking a walk around your workplace at lunchtime. And remember: The best way to prevent type 2 diabetes is to follow a healthy lifestyle, which includes making smart food choices. If your diet could use a makeover, don't wait until your doctor sounds the prediabetes alarm to make changes. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. RELATED: How Exercise Helps Prevent and Manage Type 2 Diabetes Additional reporting by Beth W. Orenstein. NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Diabetes Newsletter!Enter your email By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The Latest in Type 2 DiabetesMake breakfast a no-brainer. These simple ideas will keep your blood sugar steady and get you on with your day in no time. Does Metformin Cause Weight Loss? What to Know Before You Take ItAre you struggling to lose weight? Metformin can do more than improve blood sugar control — it may also help you lose stubborn pounds. Here’s what you... By Valencia HigueraNovember 28, 20228 Best Fruits for a Diabetes-Friendly DietForbidden fruit? Not if you make the right choices. These favorites are low-carb, low on the glycemic index, and good for your diabetes diet plan. By Maria MastersNovember 23, 202216 Apps for Managing Diabetes: Blood Glucose Trackers, Food and Exercise Logs, and MoreBy Lauren BedoskyNovember 2, 2022Ozempic Shortage: How a Weight Loss Fad Has Slashed Access to a Diabetes DrugThe type 2 diabetes injectable semaglutide (Ozempic) has gone viral on social media for one of its side effects — weight loss — and become harder to access... By Lisa RapaportOctober 28, 2022The Best Oatmeal for Type 2 DiabetesEating fiber-rich oats can have cardiovascular benefits and may help you control blood sugar. But when it comes to a diabetes diet, not all oats are created... By Kristeen Cherney, PhDOctober 27, 202210 People Who Can Help You Manage Type 2 DiabetesAs you begin the challenge of managing type 2 diabetes, these are the healthcare providers who can increase your chances of success. By Jessica MigalaOctober 24, 2022A Q&A on Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), a Novel Diabetes Drug, With the ADA’s Dr. Robert GabbayFrom A1C reduction to weight loss, these are the possible health benefits of the type 2 diabetes treatment option — which may soon become an obesity drug... By Kate RuderOctober 7, 2022Drinking Tea Tied to Lower Risk of Type 2 DiabetesThe diabetes risk drops substantially when people drink at least 4 cups a day of certain teas, new research suggests. By Lisa RapaportSeptember 23, 20228 Ways to Sleep Better When You Have DiabetesA good night’s rest is important for everyone, but too little sleep can raise your blood sugar if you have type 2 diabetes. These tips can help you catch... |