Recent research in Archives of Internal Medicine shows that 5 simple lifestyle factors cause 89% of all cases of type 2 diabetes in adults. Here they are:
- Regular physical activity
- Don’t smoke
- Eat a healthy diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink a small amount of alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight (body mass index at 25 or less)
Several things are striking about these results;
- Diabetes is the third most common cause of death in the United States
- 89% effectiveness prevention of the is very powerful
- All of these measures that are shown to be effective for type 2 diabetes are also effective prevention for cardiovascular disease – the number one cause of death in the United States
If doing these five things seem overwhelming, consider doing just one to get started. Increasing exercise is usually a good place to start.
For more support on making healthy change, check out my podcast entitled “Making a Change” at iTunes or in your web browser.
Be Well,
Richard