Know your risk

9 out of 10 people who have prediabetes (having blood glucose levels higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes) don’t know they have it. There are several factors that might make you at a higher risk of developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Being 40 years or older

  • Having a BMI that is categorized as overweight or obese

  • Having a history of gestational diabetes

  • Having a family history of type 2 diabetes

  • Having certain medical conditions like high blood pressure

  • Having a sedentary lifestyle

The Prediabetes Risk Test is an easy evaluation of your risk, and it takes only about one minute to complete.

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Make healthier choices

One of the main contributors to type 2 diabetes is diet. You can help prevent type 2 diabetes by making healthier choices when it comes to what you eat. A well-balanced diet is heavy in fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts or seeds, and lean meats like fish. As much as possible, avoid red meat, processed foods, sugary foods, soda, and excessive alcohol.

The Healthy Lifestyle Center in Muncie is a free community resource that provides a number of services and programs, including healthy eating and nutrition support.

Incorporate more movement

A sedentary lifestyle increases your risk for type 2 diabetes. It’s important to incorporate regular movement and exercise into your daily lifestyle. If this seems daunting or time-consuming, start small: take a walk each morning or after work, make an effort to stand more, and take the stairs instead of the elevator. Staying motivated to exercise often comes with finding an activity that you enjoy, so try new things—and it doesn’t have to be expensive; there are plenty of free videos on YouTube for things like yoga, dancing, high-intensity interval training, and more. 

The Healthy Lifestyle Center in Muncie is a free community resource that provides a number of services and programs, including physical activity support.