Even as recently as the 1970’s and 1980’s, scientists couldn’t say with any degrees of certainty that they knew what the major causes of diabetes were. Diligent research and lots of funding has brought us a long way towards understanding this condition. They had a pretty good idea that genetic and ethnic factors played a role. There was also evidence that pointed to gender playing a role. Beyond that, there was plenty of hypotheses but also plenty of controversy and opinion. We now understand that environmental factors are one of the major causes of diabetes. The good thing about this knowledge is that environmental factors are things you sometimes have control over, thus being able to take preventative measures to do something about one of the major causes of diabetes.

 

What Do We Now Know about the Major Causes of Diabetes?

 

  • Unfortunately, age is one of the major causes of diabetes. And as of now there is nothing anyone can do about that. The alternative to aging is not desirable, so you will either age or die. But you can play an important part in how healthy you remain as you age. And remaining fit and healthy as you age is one of the best ways to avoid type 2 diabetes. Remaining fit and healthy means eating nutritionally sound meals, remaining as active as possible, exercising if you are able, and avoid getting overweight. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control. You can also quit smoking, cut down or stop drinking, and avoid abusing drugs or any other substances.
  • Obesity probably tops the list of major causes of diabetes. But unless there is some disease or genetic factor that causes you to gain weight, this cause of diabetes is entirely in the realm of things you can control. It is really pretty simple! Just burn more calories than you eat. You can eat larger quantities of food if you make choices that are not high in fat and calories. Yet, it is amazing how many people allow themselves to become obese. For those that are already obese, dieting will help, but unless eating habits are changed permanently, (not just until you attain your desired weight) the weight will return, often even more weight. Exercise helps immensely, but too many people make excuses for not exercising or just don’t do it regularly. Surgical procedures are also available for those that can’t control their weight any other way.
  • Another of the major causes of diabetes is inactivity. Lack of exercise or activity leads to a sedentary lifestyle that is inviting type 2 diabetes. You don’t have to go to a gym, or run miles a week. Something as simple as a 30 minute walk on a regular basis will provide great benefit. If you can’t walk for 30 minutes, walk for 15. Any regular activity will help you avoid diabetes. Just get up and do it!

You can’t control all the major causes of diabetes, but you should do what you can to take control of the ones you can.