Type 2 diabetes has been called adult onset diabetes as those over 45 years of age are susceptible to developing this type of diabetes, especially if risk factors are present. But, many younger people today are developing type 2 diabetes as well. Being overweight and sedentary, having high blood pressure or high cholesterol are some of the factors which put people at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes. There is also a genetic risk in developing type 2 diabetes in those with a parent, child or a sibling with diabetes. You can lessen your risk for diabetes by attaining and maintaining a healthy body weight and by eating a balanced diet and exercising daily.

Maintaining a healthy weight and losing weight to reach a healthy body weight greatly reduce the risk for diabetes. Studies have shown that those with pre-diabetes or glucose intolerance, greatly lessen their risk of diabetes if they maintain a healthy body weight. Proper diet and exercise are essential in keeping a healthy body weight.

Eating small meals throughout the day is often healthier than eating a few large meals daily. Blood sugars are more likely to become unstable in the body when food is not consumed regularly such as every four to six hours. While eating sugar does not cause diabetes, eating too much sugary and starchy food can lead to weight gain and poor health, so better food choices are necessary in lessening the risk factors for diabetes.

Poor eating habits such as consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for diabetes. Those taking medications for high blood pressure should be sure to take them regularly and eat a low sodium diet in order to lessen their risk for diabetes.

High cholesterol has also been associated with diabetes. The types and amounts of fats should be carefully monitored both to prevent weight gain and high cholesterol counts. Daily exercise such as walking briskly is important to lessen the risk of diabetes by maintaining a proper body weight.

Discussing your risk for diabetes and ways to prevent the disease with your doctor is a good idea. You should also have your doctor's approval for an appropriate exercise and diet plan. You should also notify your doctor if you experience any symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst, increased urination, increased hunger, weight loss, blurred vision, slow-healing sores and a tendency to become tired more easily than normal.