According to American Diabetes Association, nearly 24 million people, almost 8% of the U.S. population, have diabetes. More than a quarter of them are unaware that they have the disease. Why are so many people affected? Both genes and lifestyle play a part.

Many of us inherit genes that place us at risk for diabetes, even though we may not know of any of our family members who were diagnosed with diabetes. Some authorities think up to 70% of people maybe genetically susceptible. What makes the difference between being at risk and being diabetic? What we eat, and what we do.

Until fairly recently, humans walked everywhere and did strenuous physical activity every day. We ate mostly plants, with lots of fiber and little sugar. Animal fats were hard to come by, so they made up only a small part of our diet. Now, we have lots of foods high in sugar, low in fiber, and packed with calories. At the same time, technology helps us avoid most of the physical activity that used to be a normal part of life.

I am a type 2 diabetic--the most common type. How did I become one? Like millions of others...

--I thought I was not at risk. However, the majority of us may be susceptible.

--I skipped breakfast (which causes the liver to release sugar into the bloodstream.)

--I did enjoy a yummy latte and muffin by mid morning or lunch.(Since I didn't eat breakfast, I could convince myself it was okay.) And who doesn't like a big glass of OJ?(Never mind that it contains as much sugar as a whole meal!)

--I was way too busy to exercise.(It only takes a 15 minute brisk walk twice a day to greatly improve blood sugar levels.)

Of course, you could do the opposite and very likely never become a diabetic. Eat a healthy breakfast. Eat lots of vegetables and whole grains, and avoid highly processed foods. Take a brisk walk everyday--even a couple times a day. Even if you may be at risk, you may not have to become a diabetic.

Linda Hicks RN, MS, CDE
(Certified Diabetes Educator)
Bay Area Hospital
Member of the Coos County
Women's Health Coalition