There are different types of diabetes with the most common three types being type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes cannot be currently prevented while type 2 diabetes can be prevented in a high percentage of cases.

Diabetes is a complex condition that can affect the entire body and can have a big impact on quality of life if not treated properly. Based on the type of diabetes an individual has will affect the treatment with the focus being the maintenance of healthy levels of glucose in the blood.

Our bodies work to convert glucose from the food we eat into energy and insulin works within this process to convert energy. For diabetes sufferers, insulin levels are either not produced at all or not produced at the right levels, making the creation of energy difficult which affects the entire body.

Glucose levels can be managed through self management of diet and also treatment with insulin. If not managed properly individuals can suffer from complications including heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, and issues with mental health.

Tips for avoiding a type 2 diabetes diagnosis include:

• Manage your weight – be aware that excess body fat can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes so be sure to keep fit and healthy and keep your weight under control.

• Exercise – being active and managing your weight, cholesterol and blood pressure works to keep diabetes at bay. Exercising 30 minutes daily is a great way to avoid a diabetes diagnosis.

• Eat well – eating a healthy diet and limiting processed foods is a simple way to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. Cooking for yourself and eating fruit, vegetables and high-fibre foods is a great way to balance your diet and ensure you are eating well.

• Reduce alcohol and smoking – cutting back on alcohol and smoking is a simple way to avoid developing type 2 diabetes. Alcohol can lead to weight gain and smokers have a higher likelihood than non-smokers to develop diabetes.

If you would like professional medical advice on ways to avoid a diabetes diagnosis or to take charge of your health why not arrange one of our men’s or women’s health screening services today. To arrange a health screening get in touch with The Medical Concierge team to book an appointment +65 6679 7867 or email us at customercare@tmcg.com.sg to ask for more information.