How Can Diabetes Be Prevented?

Only recently have researchers been able to identify effective ways to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes among people who are at risk. In 2001, a large-scale national study called the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) showed -- for the first time ever -- that type 2 diabetes could be prevented or delayed through changes in eating habits and physical activity.^12,13

What we have learned from the DPP study shows that diabetes can be prevented or delayed by taking a few small steps:

• Losing a moderate amount of weight
  For people who weigh more than 200 pounds, losing 10 to 15 pounds (5 - 7 percent of body weight)
   
• Increasing physical activity
  Walking or riding a bike for 30 minutes most days (or other comparable activity)
   
• Consuming healthful foods in appropriate portion sizes

The study also showed that older adults respond better than younger age groups to increased physical activity and weight loss (achieved through low-fat food choices). In the same study, although medications were effective to some degree, physical activity and weight loss were significantly more effective in older adults.¹⁴

¹² Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group. (2002) "Reduction in the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes With Lifestyle Intervention or Metformin." New England Journal of Medicine 346(6):393-403.

¹³ American Diabetes Association and NIDDK. (April 2002) "Position Statement: The Prevention or Delay of Type 2 Diabetes." Diabetes Care 25(4):742-49.

¹⁴ Kelly, J.M., et al. (2004) "Diabetes Prevention: A GAMEPLAN for Success." Geriatrics 59(7):28.