Who's at risk for type 2 diabetes? The answer may surprise you

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where your body has been overloaded with sugar, in all of its forms, usually for many years. This causes your pancreas to be taxed to the point where you might describe it as being 'worn out'. This results in sugar going directly into your bloodstream, instead of being metabolized over time. In severe cases, the diabetic may suffer dizziness, blackouts or stroke.

In the past, people who developed type 2 diabetes were generally genetically disposed to the condition. Certain ethnic groups, such as Native Americans, Hispanics and Blacks were more prone to type 2 diabetes, probably because their indigenous diets did not include much sugar. When people of these ethnic groups took up the Westernized diet, their bodies were not equipped to handle the large amounts of sugar and thus were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

While these ethnic groups are still at risk for type 2 diabetes, it's somewhat of a medical puzzle that today, even people without a hereditary predisposition are at risk for type 2 diabetes. If we take a common sense look at the everyday American diet, absolutely loaded with hidden sugars and poor dietary habits, it becomes easier to understand why we are all at risk for type 2 diabetes



Rates of type 2 diabetes have skyrocketed in the last couple of decades, regardless of ethnic backgrounds and even age. While type 2 diabetes is still commonly referred to as 'adult onset' diabetes, now the number of children not even yet into their teens, who are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, is rising at an alarming rate.

Let's take a look at the dietary factors and 'hidden' sugar that puts all of us at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Most of us rely, at least occasionally, on ready to eat foods, in the form of frozen entrees and canned meals, such as chili and spaghetti sauce. All of these 'convenience' foods have added sugar, as well as salt. Why do the manufacturers add these ingredients? To enhance the taste. They are playing to our sweet tooth, subtly but effectively. Next time you pick up one of these processed, ready to eat meals, check the label for the sugar content. If you make such meals a regular part of your diet, you're increasing your chances of being at risk for type 2 diabetes.

The same is true of canned fruits. You've probably noticed that canned fruits are now available in 'no sugar added', 'lite syrup' and 'made with Splenda(TM) versions. While fresh fruits are your best choice, when you pick up canned fruits, check to see what the differences are between all of these choices.

When you pack the kid's lunch boxes, avoid the prepared snacks. There are more hidden sugars lurking there. Replace candy bars with a granola bar and soda with a fruit juice. Growing kids can ingest huge amounts of food to keep them going. Make sure their sugar intake is minimized. Focus on healthy foods which help them grow, while reducing their susceptibility for being at risk for type 2 diabetes.

We're told by our doctors about the value of fiber in our diets. You may wonder what's so great about fiber. The simple carbohydrates, such as are contained in that spongy, nutrient deficient, white bread, translate into an almost instant sugar rush into your bloodstream, again increasing your chances of being at risk for type 2 diabetes, when consumed on a regular basis. Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates, which break down more slowly, for a measured conversion and metabolizing of the resultant sugars in your blood stream. In addition, the fiber content keeps your digestive system in good order as a bonus. Adequate fiber in your diet flushes toxins from your system, an important preventative component in  reducing your risk for type 2 diabetes.

That old adage, 'an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure' may sound dated, but it's nonetheless true when it comes to an anti-diabetic diet. Cold water fish should be on your menus frequently, full of those Omega-3 fatty acids, which help to favorably regulate cholesterol levels, keep blood pressure in line and provide adequate levels of selenium, a trace mineral of which most diabetics are deficient, resulting in skin rashes and dryness.

So, who's at risk for type 2 diabetes today? All of us! Good nutrition is your best weapon in avoiding developing this devastating disease. Keep your weight in check and exercise regularly. Type 2 diabetes is no joke. Protect your kids and yourself!