Diabetes occurs when your body has trouble regulating blood sugar levels, either due to insulin resistance (Type 2 Diabetes) or lack of insulin production (Type 1 Diabetes). While obesity is one of the well-known risk factor for Diabetes, it’s not the only one.

There are many other risks factors that you need to know that causes diabetes. But before we get started lets understand why Type 2 diabetes is closely related to obesity.

Lets talk about obesity. Why is obesity  a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Research shows that a higher BMI increases diabetes risk.

To put it in simple terms, excess fat especially around the belly, makes it harder for cells to absorb glucose from your blood (insulin resistance), leading to high blood sugar. Excess fats also causes inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and fat buildup in the liver, which worsens insulin resistance.

As a result your pancreas will create more insulin to make up for the blood glucose that cannot be absorbed due to insulin resistance.

However, some people may not be able to produce enough insulin to absorb the glucose in your blood which will result in high blood sugar leading to Type 2 Diabetes.

Not everyone are build the same. Some people are just genetically weaker at some parts such as people with a weaker pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to absorb the sugar in their blood may lead to type 1 diabetes.

Ok so now we know that insulin plays a big part of diabetes, now we can dive in to see what can affect your insulin production!

If you have a family member that has diabetes there is a chance that you may get diabetes as well. While lifestyle plays a big role, your genetics can also influence how your body processes insulin (which is essential to regulate your blood sugar level).

However, gentics doesn’t mean it is a 100% chance you will get diabetes. Since everyone inherit different DNAs you and your siblings may not inherit the same.

I have seen some cases where a pair of siblings go for blood test one has a higher risk for cancer and the other has a lower risk. So if it is possible, it would be great to get yourself checked to see if you have any underlying health issues or potential health issues. This way you can start early to prevent these from hapening!

Some may not like this, but smoking not only causes cancer it also cause diabetes. Nicotine which is one of the main ingredient in most cigarettes and vapes can raise your blood sugar hence leading to type 2 diabetes.

So, what about drinking alcohol?
Drinking alcohol can actually impact your blood sugar level, it can either raise or lower your blood sugar level. If continue it can damage insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to blood sugar imbalances and increasing risk of diabetes.

Oh no! I’m sure we are all guilty of this… Hey sleeping well is a luxury in modern days especially in Singapore. When was the last time you have gotten a decent sleep? I’m guessing maybe during the weekends? Yea the truth is, it is just not realistic to have an 8 hour sleeping schedule at 11 everyday. Many of us have to wake up early in the morning to prepare to go to work or go to school and sleep later due to work or school work. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to get better sleep! Try sleeping at least 7 hours daily, it will defintely improve your sleep quality!

Ok so what is the link between sleep and diabetes?
The lack of sleep further disrupts metabolism, making it harder for the body to regulate glucose, which then leads to diabetes.

Here are some food and methods you can do to prevent diabetes or reduce blood sugar level!