Currently, type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. The environmental triggers thought to initiate the process that results in the destruction of the body’s insulin-producing cells are still under investigation.
Although there are several factors that influence the development of type 2 diabetes, it is evident that the most influential are the lifestyle behaviours commonly associated with urbanization. Modern lifestyles are characterized by physical inactivity, long periods of sedentary life and unhealthy foods consumption. Studies from different regions of the world have established that lifestyle modification with physical activity and/or healthy diet can delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Physical activity at least 3 to 5 days a week, for at least 30 to 45 minutes, is highly recommended. Adopting a life-course perspective is key to preventing type 2 diabetes and its complications. Early in life, when dietary and physical activity patterns are established and long-term regulation of energy balance can be programmed, there is an especially critical window to prevent the development of overweight and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Source: International Diabetes Federation
Prevention (idf.org)
