Your Genes And Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can be viewed as a consequence of an incompatibility between modern dietary and lifestyle choices and our genetic makeup. People descended from regions where the traditional dietary and lifestyle environment differed most from that of modern day are at higher risk.
Know your genes and eat right to prevent type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes can be viewed as a consequence of an incompatibility between modern dietary and lifestyle choices and our genetic makeup. People descended from regions where the traditional dietary and lifestyle environment differed most from that of modern day are at higher risk. Fortunately, specific food and dietary choices can help address genetic predisposition and reduce risk for type 2 diabetes:
--Carriers of FADS1 risk variants can benefit from eating more fish, milk and eggs or from taking fish oil supplements, all which provide eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and help the body burn fat more efficiently.
--Carriers of SLC30A8 risk variants show reduced zinc transporter activity in the pancreas which results in reduced insulin secretion. This risk can be reduced by including more zinc-rich foods in the diet or with zinc supplementation.
--Carriers of TCF7L2 risk variants are insensitive to incretin factors and produce insufficient amounts of insulin in response to blood glucose levels. Limiting total carbohydrate intake per meal and including only complex rather than simple carbohydrates in your diet can mitigate risk.
--ADIPOQ risk variants are associated with increased insulin resistance due to lower adiponectin hormone levels. Risk variant carriers benefit from exercising more and consuming less total calories.
Learn more about the genetics behind type 2 diabetes management.
General recommendations for preventing or reversing type 2 diabetes include:
--Lose a modest amount of weight (about 7% of current body weight if overweight or obese).
--Engage in moderate exercise (about 150 minutes/week).
--Reduce total dietary fat consumption to no more than 25% of total calories.
HealthWatch 360 is an online tool and mobile app that is scientifically designed to help people eat right for their health. It's like having a personal nutritionist work for you 24-7… and it's completely free! Why not take a quick minute and sign up for HealthWatch 360 today? Take advantage of the opportunity to prevent or reverse type 2 diabetes so you can live a longer, healthier and happier life.
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