Key takeaways:
Having obesity can increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
If you have prediabetes, it’s possible to take steps to avoid or postpone the onset of diabetes.
You may be able to reverse Type 2 diabetes with certain lifestyle changes. These include managing your weight, exercising regularly, and having a well-balanced diet.
Did you know that over 40% of Americans have been labeled as “obese.” Obesity is categorized as a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher.
Obesity can lead to serious health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It is also a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a condition that causes your blood glucose (sugar) levels to rise too much. This can lead to serious complications, affecting many of your major organs and tissues.
Let’s look at the link between obesity and diabetes and discuss some ways to reduce your risk.
What is the link between diabetes and obesity?
Obesity refers to excess body fat. This can increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, particularly if you have abdominal fat. In fact, about 80% of people with Type 2 diabetes also have a BMI of 30 or higher.
Research shows that the two conditions are linked. In the U.S., obesity rates have risen by 10% over the past decade. As a result, there has also been an increase in weight-related conditions like Type 2 diabetes.
How does being obese cause diabetes?
There are complex factors that likely contribute to obesity causing diabetes. Having too much body fat can cause inflammation. And researchers have identified a link between inflammation and metabolic disorders like diabetes. It may cause cellular changes that prevent you from metabolizing food properly.
Insulin is a hormone that helps to regulate your blood glucose levels. It does this by moving glucose into your cells after you eat. But the amount of body fat you have can affect how well your insulin works. Excess fat may block insulin from carrying glucose into the cells. And this can lead to high blood glucose levels.
What are the risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes?
There are many risk factors for developing diabetes. Many of these are related to your lifestyle and habits. Factors that may lead to increases in both diabetes and obesity include:
Sedentary behavior: Physical inactivity leads to a higher risk of both obesity and diabetes.
Unhealthy eating habits: A diet high in calories, sugar, and saturated or trans fats can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Lack of sleep: Poor sleep habits and a lack of adequate sleep have been linked to higher rates of obesity and diabetes.
Stress: Chronic stress can lead to overeating, a sedentary lifestyle, and other unhealthy behaviors. These can all contribute to obesity and diabetes.
Smoking: Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and diabetes. This is likely due to the negative effects it has on metabolism and blood sugar regulation.
Does everyone with obesity get diabetes?
Obesity is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. But not all people with heavier weights will develop diabetes. Other factors contribute to the development of diabetes, such as:
Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to obesity and diabetes. In this case, it may be more difficult to maintain a healthy weight and manage your blood-sugar levels.
Age: As you age, your risk of developing obesity and diabetes increases. This may be due to hormonal and body composition changes and decreased physical activity.
Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups have a higher risk of obesity and diabetes, such as African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans.
How is Type 2 diabetes diagnosed in people with obesity?
Diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes uses the same criteria for everyone, regardless of their weight. However, if you’re labeled as obese, your healthcare provider may check you more frequently for diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed with two simple blood sugar tests:
Fasting blood glucose
To take a fasting blood glucose test, you can’t eat or drink for at least 8 hours before providing your blood sample. If your fasting blood glucose is 126 mg/dL or higher, it indicates that you have diabetes.
On the other hand, a hemoglobin A1C test does not require any special preparation or fasting. It estimates your blood glucose levels for the past 2 to 3 months and is measured as a percentage. Your provider will diagnose you with diabetes if your A1C test result is 6.5% or higher.
How do you prevent Type 2 diabetes if you have obesity?
Weight loss is an effective way to prevent obesity-related diabetes. Even a small reduction in total body weight (3% to 5%) can help improve your physical health. There are two main ways to manage your body weight: diet and exercise. Let’s explore both of these.
Exercise
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) distinguishes between exercise and physical activity:
Physical activity: any form of movement that uses energy (like cleaning your house)
Exercise: a structured form of physical activity used to improve or maintain physical fitness (like a planned walk for 30 minutes)
If you have a BMI of 30 or higher, you can decrease your risk of diabetes by getting more physical activity and exercise. That said, the ADA has found that planned exercise is more effective at reducing the risk of developing diabetes. To maintain good health, aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Diet
To prevent and manage obesity and diabetes, aim to make good food choices. Avoiding foods high in sugar and trans and saturated fats can help to prevent weight gain and insulin resistance. Research suggests that following a vegetarian or vegan diet can also help improve insulin sensitivity. And it may help with overall glucose control.
The bottom line
Obesity and Type 2 diabetes are closely linked. Not everyone labeled as obese will develop diabetes. But over 80% of people with Type 2 diabetes have a BMI over 30. The good news is that you can prevent Type 2 diabetes if you have obesity. Managing your weight through good dietary habits and regular exercise is a great way to maintain your health. If you are concerned about your risk for diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about steps you can take.
Why trust our experts?
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