You may not like your body shape, but you might like it even less when you know that it can be a determining factor for your future wellbeing. According to experts, people who are ‘apples’, or who collect fat largely in their abdomen, are at greater risk for type 2 diabetes than people who are other shapes.
However, diabetes risk doesn’t start and end with your shape. According to Danny Sam, MD, an internal medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente in California, who specializes in the treatment of adult diabetes, if you’re overweight in any capacity, your risk of diabetes increases: ‘Patients who have a higher body mass index have a higher risk’. Apple-shaped people are at risk in particular to diabetes, as well as poor heart wellness.
Your body shape is determined mainly by your genes, and we come in all shapes and sizes but do any of these sound familiar? We’ve already mentioned apple, or android, body shapes but if that doesn’t sound like you, how about a pear? Pear-shaped people, who tend to be women, gather fat around their buttocks and thighs and are also referred to as a ‘gynecoid’ body shapes. If your fat is distributed in those areas you are less likely to have insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes than apples. People who collect fat everywhere at a fairly even rate, or ‘overall’ body types aren’t completely off the hook when it comes to diabetes, or other wellness risks, because being overweight or obese, regardless of whether you resemble a fruit or not.
So what can you do about it? Firstly, if you don’t know your body shape you can get a better idea by simply measuring your waist. Women should look for a number under 35 inches for a lesser risk of type 2 diabetes and men shouldn’t exceed a 40-inch waist. If your waistline surpasses that number, it’s time to take control of your destiny and become physically active. Sam recommends mixing aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming, and some weight training or core-strengthening so you get overall slimming benefits. Also, a nutritious, varied diet full of lean protein, whole grain, fruits, and veggies is your best bet for long-term health. You should consult your doctor about a weight loss plan and whether you need to be screened for prediabetes or diabetes itself.
Comments are closed.