THE FIT FACTOR
TYPE 2 diabetes is a worldwide health problem. Most of us will have heard of this disease and may know of someone in our circles who has it.
According to WHO (World Health Organization) 95% of people with diabetes have Type 2. Its incidence quadrupled in a 34-year period from 1980 – 2014 rising from 108 million known cases to 422 million. Today it is estimated to be nearer 550 million with a further predicted 240 million people worldwide unaware they have the disease. It does not always come with symptoms.
There are a number of causes of Type II diabetes. Genetic factors, poor diet and regular inactivity, poor lifestyle, obesity, age, ethnicity & race, insulin resistance (developed from diabetes in pregnancy or hormone changes for example)
I have seen the increasing prevalence of this chronic disease in my line of work as clients come seeking advice on how to improve their health to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. I often speak to clients who have had a recent health check and their glucose level is indicating they are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes or they already have the disease and need to improve their health to meet the individual targets set by the diabetic team, who look after them.
I have learnt to give overall advice that encompasses the whole person rather than focussing specifically on their diet and lifestyle. It’s a complex metabolic disorder so preventative interventions are essential. The World Health Organisation’s advice for prevention is simplified to:
■ Reach and keep a healthy body weight;
■ Stay physically active with at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day;
■ Eat a healthy diet avoiding sugary foods and drinks plus saturated fat; ■ Do not smoke tobacco.
You should always work with your healthcare team to manage the condition, make sure you attend each review and do not bury your head in the sand thinking, things will resolve on their own, or everything is ok because you don’t have any symptoms.
Additional advice I give to clients:
■ Commit to a long-term plan to safeguard your future health;
■ Always let your fitness team know of any medication you are taking which may impact your ability to exercise – especially if they can cause hypoglycemia. (low blood sugar);
■ Carry some form of glucose with you while exercising, you may wish to leave some at the gym in a locker or with your trainer;
■ Make sure you have enough fuel to train and are well hydrated, always take water with you to train.
■ Listen to your body and make sensible decisions if you are not feeling great.
Never underestimate the huge impact living a healthy lifestyle has on your long term health. Good diet and regular exercise can prevent and improve so many different chronic conditions. It is usually the first intervention a healthcare team will discuss with you before considering medication to manage conditions. Don’t let chronic disease hold you back – it’s never too late to be proactive about looking after your health and wellbeing.