A Few Tips for Diabetes Prevention

Rodney Goodie serves the St. Hope Foundation in the position of chief executive officer, and he also engages with local nonprofit organizations, including his service as a board member with the University of Houston Cougar Athletic Alliance. For nearly two decades, Rodney Goodie has guided St. Hope Foundation in its work with patients dealing with a number of diseases and conditions, including diabetes.

For some individuals, diabetes is an unavoidable consequence of genetics or other uncontrollable factors. When it comes to type 2 diabetes, however, individuals can take a number of steps to minimize their chances of developing the condition. Prevention is particularly important for individuals with higher risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight or having a family history of the disease.

Increased physical activity is one of the best ways to prevent type 2 diabetes. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, lower blood sugar, and improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Eating well is another important aspect of diabetes prevention. A healthy diet should include ample fiber and consist mostly of vegetables and fruits.

Although exercise and proper diet should help individuals maintain a healthy weight, additional steps may need to be taken, as weight loss is a critical component of diabetes prevention. A study has shown that individuals who lower their body weight by just 7 percent may reduce their risk of developing diabetes by up to 60 percent.

Finally, some individuals may need to consult with a trusted medical professional. Any person over the age of 45 should discuss diabetes testing and methods of prevention with their doctor, even if they do not feel that they are at an elevated risk for diabetes.