It was around eight years ago when my father, John Zaleski, began to notice something was amiss. I had always seen him as a person with boundless energy, able to juggle his job and household tasks effortlessly. But this time, he felt shaky and fatigued without any clear cause. This feeling puzzled him, leading him to purchase a glucometer to measure his glucose levels. It’s typical of him to seek answers, even in unconventional places.
The next morning, after checking his glucose levels, he was shocked to see the reading at 218. To put it into perspective, a fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dl is considered the threshold for diabetes. This revelation startled him. Despite being a lean and active individual, his diagnosis of type 2 diabetes was confirmed by his primary-care physician.
Learning about my father’s journey with diabetes surprised me. Being his son, I now find myself in a high-risk category due to the genetic predisposition. Genetics play a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that identical twins have a high chance of developing the disease if one twin has it.
Type 2 diabetes is a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, including diet and exercise habits. Family history, obesity, and genetic mutations can all contribute to the development of diabetes. Understanding the causes and risk factors of the disease is crucial in prevention.
In my case, I have a genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes due to my diagnosis of type 1 myotonic dystrophy. Insulin resistance, a hallmark of myotonic dystrophy, is a precursor to diabetes. This realization prompted me to take proactive steps to prevent the disease.
Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential in diabetes prevention. Following a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help regulate blood sugar levels. Limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates can prevent spikes in glucose levels, reducing the risk of insulin resistance.
Exercise is also a crucial component in diabetes prevention. Strength training and aerobic exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in muscles. Even with genetic predispositions, lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise can significantly impact diabetes risk.
While medications like GLP-1 agonists and metformin can aid in diabetes prevention, they should be considered alongside lifestyle changes. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active are key strategies in diabetes prevention.
In conclusion, my father’s advice of focusing on diet, weight management, and exercise resonates with me. By prioritizing fresh, unprocessed foods and staying physically active, I aim to reduce my risk of developing diabetes in the future. While the path to prevention may vary for each individual, taking proactive steps early on can make a significant difference in managing diabetes risk.
