Experts call for healthy eating and physical activity on World Diabetes Day

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Category: Maintaining health, sports, and diet

In line with World Diabetes Day, health experts call for an increase in healthy eating and physical activity to reduce risk for the condition, which currently affects around 387 million people across the globe.

There are two main forms of diabetes: type 1, in which the body is unable to produce the hormone insulin, and type 2, in which the body is unable to use insulin effectively. Type 2 is the most common form, accounting for around 90% of all diabetes cases worldwide.

People with diabetes are at much greater risk for poor cardiovascular health than the general population. For example, the condition can increase heart attack risk by up to three times for men and five times for women.
What is more, cardiovascular disease is responsible for around 50-80% of deaths in people with diabetes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people with diabetes globally is expected to soar to 592 million by 2035 - an increase that experts attribute to a combination of low physical activity and increased intake of unhealthy foods.
The majority of people are well aware that physical activity benefits health, and most countries have guidelines recommending how much activity one should engage in.
In the US, for example, guidelines state adults should take part in 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claim that less than half of adults meet these guidelines.
 
Simple steps to reduce diabetes risk

Numerous studies have suggested a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of diabetes, as well as improve the health of people who already have the condition.
Earlier this year studies reported on a study that found people who engaged in
healthy diet and exercise programs were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who did not engage in such programs. And more recently, a study found just short bursts of gentle exercise can lower blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes.

The following four simple steps that can lower the risk for diabetes and heart-related health problems:

1. Move around more
2. Engage in moderate to vigorous activity at least 3 hours a week
3. Avoid eating junk foods, particularly those high in sugar
4. Instead, eat leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, lean meats, unsweetened yogurt and nuts.

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/302581.php