Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

In today’s fast-paced world, juggling multiple commitments while attempting to manage your health can seem like an insurmountable challenge. This article will explore how type 2 diabetes and obesity are connected. It will also offer solutions for how to manage diabetes through weight management and a healthy lifestyle.

The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

For many individuals, managing health—including maintaining a healthy diet and exercising—can be put on hold in favor of more urgent life matters. Unfortunately, if you are someone who has type 2 diabetes, neglecting a healthy diet and exercise can lead to weight gain and increase your risk of developing health complications.

Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Obesity

Not every person with a large body size is obese; some individuals have small body types but live with obesity.

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by weight that is higher than what is considered healthy for a given height is described as overweight or obesity. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool for overweight and obesity.

Obesity is a complex health condition with far-reaching implications, and it’s not just a cosmetic issue. It can be a long-term struggle for some, whereas, for others, weight gain can happen gradually over time until it becomes a health issue.

While genetics and other factors play a role in type 2 diabetes development, obesity is considered to be a modifiable risk factor; proactive lifestyle changes can lower your risk of diabetes and lead to healthier outcomes.

How Obesity Increases the Risk of Diabetes

The factors listed below help discuss the relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes:

1. Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance is one of the primary mechanisms by which obesity contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays an essential role in regulating blood sugar levels. For individuals who live with obesity, excess fat cells release inflammatory chemicals that interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This resistance to insulin makes it harder for cells in the body to absorb glucose in the bloodstream. 
2. Beta Cell Dysfunction: The pancreas houses the beta cells responsible for producing insulin. However, an excessive demand for insulin due to insulin resistance can lead to a decline in beta cell function. When these cells aren’t able to produce sufficient insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check, it can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. 
3. Inflammation and Metabolic Dysfunction: Obesity causes chronic low-grade inflammation in the body, which leads to metabolic dysfunction. This inflammation disrupts the delicate balance of hormones and metabolic processes, aggravating insulin resistance and impaired glucose regulation.

How to Manage Diabetes

Work with your healthcare team to develop a diet and exercise program that lowers your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and complements your lifestyle.

Here are a few suggestions for diabetes management:

• Physical Activity: Find time in your busy schedule for physical activity—it's essential for your health. Short bursts of exercise throughout the day add up over time. Exercise every day or every other day to continually reduce insulin resistance. 

The effect physical activity has on your blood glucose will vary depending on how long you are active and many other factors. Physical activity can lower your blood glucose up to 24 hours or more after your workout by making your body more sensitive to insulin.

• Dietary Choices: Among the many options available, cultivate a mindful approach to your diet. Choose nutrient-dense foods that provide long-lasting energy and blood sugar stability.
• Regular Glucose Monitoring: Regularly monitoring your glucose levels will provide valuable information about your body's reactions to food, activities, and medications, allowing you to make more informed choices.

POGO Automatic^® Blood Glucose Monitor

The link between type 2 diabetes and obesity highlights the importance of making informed health decisions on a daily basis. Deciding to work with your healthcare team to manage obesity will also help you manage type 2 diabetes.

Work with your healthcare team to find solutions that are right for you, and use the most advanced tools available to make your diabetes management plan easier. The all-in-one POGO Automatic® Monitor allows you to test your glucose quickly, discreetly, and on the go.

Jaclyn Owens Jaclyn Owens is a product director specializing in diabetes management tools. She is committed to using technology to empower people with diabetes and help them take control of their health.

All content on this website is for educational purposes only and does not replace the guidance of your healthcare practitioner. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new healthcare regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

PL000388 Rev A