Healthy Ways to Help Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts millions of Americans each year. It is most common in adults over the age of 45 and can lead to a number of health complications including heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease. There are, however, many ways to keep your risk of developing type 2 diabetes low. Here are some recommendations from one of Amwell's registered dieticians, Margaret Apura:
Maintain a healthy weight.
People who are overweight or obese may be at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. To find out more about your weight, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) BMI calculator.
Stay active.
Engaging in 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week can help control blood sugar and weight. Walking is a great option when trying to stay fit — try grabbing a friend and going for a walk when the weather is nice!
Pay attention to portion sizes.
This can be especially difficult when eating at restaurants or another person's home. Try using this guide to measure your portions wherever you go.
Have a well-balanced diet.
The CDC's plate method is a great resource for learning how to balance your diet. They recommend filling:
- 1/2 of your plate with non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, or carrots
- 1/4 of your plate with lean protein such as chicken, beans, or eggs
- 1/4 of your plate with a grain or starch such as potatoes, rice, or pasta
Schedule a visit on Amwell.
Sometimes diabetes prevention can feel overwhelming and maybe even a little burdensome. Amwell providers are here to support you, answer your questions, and help you plan out next steps for care.