Hi-R-Ed Online

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Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

Exactly how weight contributes to the development of Type 2 diabetes is not clear. Weight is a clear risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes and weight loss can reduce that risk.

Body’s cells become resistant to insulin

Insulin resistance causes the pancreas to produce

extra insulin

Beta cells become stressed, insulin production

declines

Blood glucose levels rise

Weight loss can have an impact on a variety of factors:

Reduce progression of prediabetes to Type 2 Diabetes

Slow the progressive nature of Type 2 diabetes

Decrease complications associated with Type 2 Diabetes

And, in fact, there are several benefits of weight loss and weight management in diabetes

Weight loss decreases insulin resistance. Improving one’s insulin sensitivity often increases the amount of time someone has blood sugars in a normal range. It can reduce the number of diabetic medications needed to manage blood sugars.

Obesity increases many health problems like sleep apnea, hypertension, dyslipidemia and stroke. Weight reduction can help lower risk of developing these comorbidities and diabetic complications.

Losing 5% of body weight will improve metabolic function in liver, fat and muscle tissue. High triglycerides and high cholesterol levels will be reduced with just a 5% weight loss.

Carrying extra weight can be heard on joints and increase fatigue. Weight loss can often lead to an increase in energy levels and make daily activities easier to complete.

A small amount of weight loss can lead to some important changes

For diabetes management, an improvement of HbA1C is seen with only a 5-15% weight loss.

So the question is, "How do we begin with weight loss counseling"?