Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes happens when your body can’t use insulin the right way or when the pancreas can’t make enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body’s cells use sugar (glucose) for energy. It also helps the body store extra sugar in muscle, fat, and liver cells.

Without insulin, this sugar can’t get into your cells to do its work and it stays in your blood. Your blood sugar level then gets too high. High blood sugar can harm many parts of the body, such as the eyes, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and kidneys. It can also increase your risk for other health complications.

You can take steps to prevent type 2 diabetes.

• Stay at a healthy weight. A healthy weight is one that is right for your body type, height, body mass index (BMI) and the size of your waist (waist circumference).
• Exercise regularly. Try to do moderate activity at least 2½ hours a week.
• Eat healthy foods, including whole grains, lean sources of protein, and vegetables.

Check out the following Best Health offerings to help prevent type 2 diabetes.

• Healthy eating health coaching – Work one-on-one with a Best Health Coach.
• Online diabetes prevention learning module – Learn about diabetes and how to reduce your risks of developing diabetes.
• Online blood glucose tracker – Track your blood glucose on Best Health.

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