What is diabetes What are its causes and risk factors?

What is diabetes What are its causes and risk factors?

Type 1 diabetes occurs when your immune system, the body’s system for fighting infection, attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists think type 1 diabetes is caused by genes and environmental factors, such as viruses, that might trigger the disease.

Can eating a lot of sugar cause diabetes?

Excessive amounts of added sugars have been associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, likely due to negative effects on the liver and a higher risk of obesity. Natural sugars like those found in fruits and vegetables are not linked to diabetes risk — whereas artificial sweeteners are.

Can you get diabetes at any age?

Type 1 diabetes (previously called insulin-dependent or juvenile diabetes) is usually diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults, but it can develop at any age.

What increases your risk of getting diabetes?

Overweight/obesity: Being overweight puts you at a higher risk of developing diabetes. Losing 5 percent to 7 percent of your body weight can cut your risk of developing prediabetes in half, and your risk decreases even more as you lose more weight. Learn how to manage your weight.

What can I do to mitigate the risk of diabetes?

1) Get more physical activity. There are many benefits to regular physical activity. 2) Get plenty of fiber. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and nuts. 3) Go for whole grains. 4) Lose extra weight. 5) Skip fad diets and just make healthier choices.

How does diabetes affect my risk of heart disease or stroke?

People who have it often have high blood pressure and are more likely to be overweight. Both raise the chance of a stroke. Diabetes damages your blood vessels, which makes a stroke more likely. If you have a stroke when your blood sugar levels are high, the injury to your brain is greater. CDC: “Stroke.”

Does sugar increase the risk of diabetes?

Too much alcohol may cause chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which can impair its ability to secrete insulin and potentially lead to diabetes. Tobacco. Tobacco use can increase blood sugar levels and lead to insulin resistance. The more you smoke, the greater your risk of diabetes.