What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?
July 15, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes glucose (sugar). Several factors contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, including:
- Insulin resistance: Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. In type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, meaning they don’t respond properly to insulin’s signals to take in glucose from the bloodstream. This leads to higher levels of glucose in the blood.
- Genetics and family history: Family history and genetics play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Having a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, with the condition increases the risk of developing it. Certain gene variations that affect insulin production and function can also contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.
- Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These factors include:
- Poor diet: Consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugary beverages, unhealthy fats, and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and leading a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to insulin resistance and weight gain, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly abdominal fat, is strongly associated with insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes.
- Age and ethnicity: The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age. Being over 45 years old is a risk factor for the condition. Additionally, certain ethnicities, such as African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher predisposition to type 2 diabetes.
- Gestational diabetes: Women who have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
- Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), prediabetes (higher than normal blood sugar levels but not yet diabetes), and metabolic syndrome (a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat) increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to note that type 2 diabetes is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors. Managing type 2 diabetes often involves lifestyle modifications such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and, in some cases, taking medications or insulin to control blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring and healthcare provider guidance are crucial for the effective management of type 2 diabetes.