Five Ways to Prevent Diabetes
Over the past 15 years, the Family Medicine Department at Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) has seen a rise in the number of diabetic patients. Though diets have become richer, there is no reason why diabetes has to affect you if you don't have a family history of the condition. As November 14 is World Diabetes Day, BJU's Dr. Jean-Pierre Dhenin offers his best tips on warding off the disease.
The majority of people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are overweight. Excessive weight and body fat increase your risk of developing diabetes.
2. Know your family history
Your chances of developing diabetes later in life increase if you have one or more family members with the disease.
3. Stay physically active
Regular exercise can help to prevent diabetes by controlling weight and improving blood flow. Exercise is especially important if genetics put you at risk of developing the disease.
4. Eat a balanced diet
Increase your intake of vegetables and fresh fruits. Since diabetes involves an impairment in the body's ability to either produce or utilize insulin (insulin helps to convert sugars into energy), it's important to monitor the amount of glucose and starches consumed. A dietitian could be very helpful if you need dietary advice and glucose monitoring recommendations.
5. Get checked
Everyone over the age of 45 should schedule a blood glucose measurement test with their doctor every three years. However, if there are risk factors present such as family history or obesity, regular testing should begin at an earlier age.
Dr. Jean-Pierre Dhenin received his medical degree with honors from Lille Medical University in France in 1992. He has over 25 years of experience as a general practitioner and Family Medicine physician. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dhenin, another Family Medicine physician, or a dietitian, please call the BJU Service Center at 4008-919191.
Not sure if you should get a flu shot? Here's why you really should!
Want to improve your diet? Read BJU Clinical Dietitian Jackie Gao's three simple steps that will take you in the right direction.
Want to help your child find a great hobby? BJU Child Psychiatrist Dr. Salinas walks you through it.