Top Strategies to Lower Your Risk of Diabetes

Reducing Your Diabetes Risk: Key Lifestyle Changes You Can Make Today

Diabetes is a rampant health issue in the world today. In the Philippines, one in every four adults is diagnosed with diabetes. Sadly, women are at higher risk of developing diabetes due to factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and hormonal changes. The good news is that diabetes is preventable, and making some lifestyle changes can reduce your risk. 

In this blog post, we will discuss ways women can prevent diabetes.

How Women Can Reduce Their Risk of Diabetes

Get Moving

One of the most effective ways to prevent diabetes is to stay active. Exercise helps to regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and strengthen muscles and bones. Aim to do at least thirty minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. You can also include strength training exercises like lifting weights or using resistance bands, as this helps to build lean muscle mass and burn excess fat. Additionally, make sure to avoid prolonged sitting or being sedentary for extended periods as this can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to weight gain.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Another key factor in diabetes prevention is your diet. Focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This means including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and seeds. Avoid or limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and snacks high in trans and saturated fats, salt, and added sugars. Instead, cook at home more often, use herbs and spices to season your food, and opt for healthier alternatives like water or unsweetened tea instead of soda.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for diabetes, and losing weight can help reduce your risk. While everyone's healthy weight range is different, aiming for a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5-24.9 is a good starting point. This can be achieved by following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress. Additionally, make sure to monitor your weight regularly to catch any fluctuations or changes early.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can cause inflammation in your body, which can lead to insulin resistance and eventually diabetes. To prevent this, it's important to find ways to manage stress effectively. This could include practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or aromatherapy. Additionally, try to prioritize self-care activities like getting adequate sleep, spending time with friends and family, pursuing hobbies you enjoy, or seeking professional help if needed.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Finally, staying on top of your health is crucial for diabetes prevention. Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, particularly if you have a family history of diabetes, are overweight, or have other risk factors. Your doctor can check your blood sugar levels, evaluate your overall health, and recommend any necessary tests or screenings. Investing in a health insurance plan can help cover the costs of preventive care and check-ups. Alternatively, you can also try InLife Sheroes’ free pre-diabetes quiz to find out if you are at risk.

Diabetes may seem like an inevitable health issue, but taking proactive steps to prevent it is possible. By incorporating these lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can reduce your risk of diabetes and improve your overall health and well-being. Remember that small, consistent steps can lead to significant results in the long run. So, let's start waking up to these wake-up calls and move towards a healthier, happier life.

InLife Sheroes is committed to empowering women to take charge of their health and well-being. Join our community today and receive valuable resources, tips, and support on how to prevent diabetes and other health issues. Let's work together towards a healthier future for all women!