The two main types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2.

1. Type 1 Diabetes: Occurs when the body does not produce insulin. It is not preventable, though it can be managed.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: Occurs when the body becomes insulin resistant. This is most commonly caused by genetics and choices. It is preventable—even in those who are at high-risk.

Safegaurding Against Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity and inactivity have a strong link to type 2 diabetes. If there is a family history of diabetes, or you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, the most effective way to prevent or delay a diabetes diagnosis is to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight.

In fact, studies have shown that exercise and a healthy diet can prevent the development of type 2 diabetes in people with pre-diabetes—a condition that often develops prior to full-blown type 2 diabetes. At the Warren Clinic Diabetes Center we want to help you better understand diabetes and provide you with helpful resources to help you to reach your goals.

Achieving Your Healthy Weight

Weight loss is hard—there is no doubt about it. Making small changes everyday can go a long way to helping you achieve a healthy weight. Set realistic goals and know it doesn't happen overnight. The pay off will be well worth it! 

American Diabetes Association—Weight Loss Help
Saint Francis Health System—Diabetes Support and Resources

Physical Activity

According to the American Diabetes Association, physical activity has many benefits to prediabetic patients as well as those with a family history of diabetes. They include:

• helping to lower your blood glucose, blood pressure, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides;
• lowering risk for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke;
• relieving stress;
• strengthening your heart, muscles and bones
• improving your blood circulation and tones your muscles
• keeping your body and your joints flexible.

Learn More About Diabetes Prevention

For questions about diabetes or to learn your risk of developing the disease, talk with your primary care provider (PCP). Together, you can work toward delaying or preventing diabetes from ever happening. If you don't have a PCP, please review our online directory or call Saint Francis HealthLink at 918-488-6688 to find the right one for you.