Type 2 diabetes and obesity are connected — so much so that more than 85% of the people diagnosed with it are overweight.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. It is a chronic disease in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal. Long-term complications of type 2 diabetes can include nerve damage, amputation, eye disease, and high blood pressure. Risk of coronary heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and blindness are greatly increased in those with type 2 diabetes.

What Happens in Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes begins when the body does not respond correctly to insulin, a hormone released by the pancreas. When you eat, the body breaks down sugar and starches into glucose (the basic fuel for the cells in the body). Beta cells release insulin to carry the glucose to cells to be used as energy; if the glucose does not go into the cells, it will stay in the bloodstream. When glucose builds up in the bloodstream, it causes two main problems. Immediately, your cells may become starved for energy. In time, high blood glucose levels may harm your eyes, kidneys, nerves, and/or heart.

If too much glucose stays in the bloodstream, the symptoms of diabetes can appear.

What is the Connection Between Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes?

More than 85% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight. Research is ongoing as to …
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