There are two types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. We don't know yet how to prevent type 1 diabetes. First we need to know the cause of type 1 diabetes. The basis for it is due to a genetic susceptibility, however if the person will get diabetes, depends on many different factors together.

Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed in a large number of cases by healthy living. People with diabetes in their family can also reduce their chance by 50%.

How do you reduce the chance on type 2 diabetes? Read below.

Stay active

Be active for at least half an hour a day is the best way, like walking or cycling. Here is why is being active so important:

• Glucose will be taken out of the blood more easily and the blood sugar level drops.
• The metabolism goes faster; it works the whole day through.
• Fats will be burned: an easy way to lose weight or to keep your weight.
• Muscles become firmer and bones stronger.
• You feel fitter and less tired every day, it also helps against stress.
• Better blood circulation: good for heart and blood vessels

You are never to old or too weak to start being active. There is always a point. You can move everywhere and on any level, even exercise on a chair. It is sensible though to build up slowly and to consult your physician first.

It can be motivating to be sportive with other people. Think about walking groups, sport clubs or activities for seniors. Most cities have information about this.

Keep a healthy weight

When somebody has overweight, the body often has problems to keep the blood sugar level balanced. In the long run this can result in type 2 diabetes. This has a lot to do with how the hormone insulin can do its work: the sensitivity for insulin reduces when one is overweight and the body can not deal with sugars that well.

The good news: the chance on type 2 diabetes reduces immediately when someone loses weight. Even after losing a few pounds the body becomes sensitive for insulin again.

Tip: if you lose weight, take it easy. Don't lose more weight than five to ten percent of your original body weight. So: if you weigh 80 kilo's, don't lose more then four to 8 kilo's. Do you weigh hundred kilo's, lose five to ten kilo's first. After that, you can lose more if necessary.

Eat sensible

Eating healthy helps to maintain (or lose) your weight. It also helps you to feel fit. On top of that, it reduces the chance of many disorders and diseases. Here are some tips:

• Eat moderately and keep snacks to a minimum
• Choose whole wheat products
• Choose low fat diary products
• Choose low fat meat and eat more fish
• Eat a lot of vegetables
• Eat enough fruits

There are slim people that live healthy and still get type 2 diabetes. A lot of research is being done about that.