Most of us are aware of the common things that can put us at risk for Diabetes like certain medications, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle. However, there are some unexpected things that could increase your Diabetes risk. Here we’ll discuss 5 things that you need to be aware of if you want to manage your risk.
1. Eating Red Meat
Too much red meat is linked to a 50% increase in Type 2 diabetes risk. A study found that people who eat more than one serving of red meat a day are at higher risk of developing diabetes. Processed meats increase your risk even more. So next time, skip the hot dog! Instead, focus on a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to lower your risk.
2. Dawn Phenomenon
Most people have higher blood sugar in the morning due to hormones. You can manage this sugar spike so that you aren’t at a higher risk for diabetes. Experts suggest avoiding carbs before bedtime. You should also eat a well-balanced breakfast. Plus, coffee can help lower your diabetes risk!
3. Lack of Sleep
Lack of sleep is one of the leading risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes. Sleep problems can lead to insulin resistance and can increase your blood sugar levels. When we don’t sleep our body releases more stress hormones that help us stay awake, but insulin doesn’t do its job properly. Too much glucose stays in our body, which over time can lead to diabetes and also harm our vital organs.
4. Dehydration
Your body can’t function well without proper hydration. Scientists have found that dehydration can lead to an increase in the hormone vasopressin, which prompts the kidneys to retain water and the liver to produce blood sugar. This potentially affects the body’s ability to regulate insulin over time. Make sure that you drink the recommended amount of water per day.
5. Smoking
Smokers are 30–40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than non-smokers. This risk increases with the number of cigarettes you smoke per day. Smoking damages cells, causes inflammation, and raises blood sugar levels. The more inflammation and damage to your body, the higher your risk for diabetes.
Knowing Your Risk
When it comes to diabetes, some things are out of our control. But, by knowing potential risk factors, you can live a healthier lifestyle and reduce your risk. It never hurts to adopt healthy habits like proper hydration, good sleep hygiene, and less red meat consumption.