Diabetes is divided into 2 major categories: type 1 (autoimmune condition) and type 2.
10% accounts for type 1 whilst 90% accounts for type 2.
The average age at which type 2 diabetes is diagnosed is decreasing. Previously more common among older adults, it is increasingly affecting individuals under 40, we now see type 2 diabetes in young children as well.
This trend is attributed to poor nutrition and lifestyle choices, such as increased consumption of convenience foods and reduced physical activity.
Risk Factors
Factors that heighten the risk of type 2 diabetes include:
• Obesity and excess weight are primary risks
• Increased abdominal fat indicates higher risk compared to fat stored in hips and thighs.
• Lack of physical activity decreases insulin sensitivity and affects weight management.
• Having a close relative (parent or sibling) with type 2 diabetes increases individual risk.
• Certain racial and ethnic groups, including Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, and Pacific Islander populations, face higher risks.
• Low HDL ("good") cholesterol and high triglyceride levels elevate risk.
• Risk increases with age, especially after 35 years.
• Prediabetes: Elevated blood sugar levels indicative of prediabetes raises the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes if left untreated.
• Gestational diabetes during pregnancy and birthing a large baby (over 9 pounds) increase future diabetes risk.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This condition, characterized by hormonal imbalance, obesity, and irregular menstrual cycles, heightens diabetes risk.
• Elevated fasting insulin levels
• Elevated adiponectin levels
• Previously identified impaired fasting glucose or glucose tolerance
• Increased waist-to-hip ratio
• Chronic stress
• Poor sleep/disrupted sleep
• Poor gut health
