Even if you are prediabetic, meaning you are on the borderline of acquiring diabetes, your attention to these factors is crucial to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that men and women who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of greater than 35 are 20 times more likely to develop diabetes than those with a BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9.
Even if you already developed diabetes, research has proven that adhering to a different diet and getting about 30 minutes per day of exercise can improve your health and even eliminate the disease and its debilitating byproducts, including heart disease or risk of stroke.
Since 1994, the American Diabetes Association has set a recommended level of 60 percent to 70 percent of total calories in carbohydrates and monounsaturated fats for those who have Type 1 diabetes, which requires insulin injections. The recommendations are similar for those with Type 2 diabetes, although some argue that unsaturated fat consumption may lead to weight gain, thereby exacerbating the risks.
Clearly stated, a diabetes diet is one that emphasizes nutrition, a moderate amount of food, exercise and eating more natural foods instead of processed ones. That’s a good guideline even for healthy people, but it’s particularly important in staving off the onset of diabetes.