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What Are the Causes of Adult-Onset Diabetes?

Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes occurs in adults when the body resists insulin or reduces the amount of insulin that is produced. There are several causes of adult-onset diabetes, including blood pressure, diet, weight, lifestyle and ethnicity.

  1. Blood Pressure

    • High blood pressure can lead to insulin resistance, which in turn can cause adult-onset diabetes. Normal blood pressure is 130/85 or less.

    Diet

    • Poor diets, especially those low in fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains, can tax the body and cause insulin levels to fluctuate. It is important to consume moderate amounts of a variety of foods and to stay on a regular eating schedule.

    Weight

    • Being overweight can cause insulin to not work properly, sending glucose levels in the blood up and taxing the pancreas, which will eventually stop working efficiently.

    Lifestyle

    • The lifestyle a person leads plays a huge role in the development of diabetes. Consuming too much alcohol and not getting enough exercise puts a person at risk of developing this condition.

    Ethnicity

    • Ethnicity plays a factor, as well, as Asians have a higher likelihood of developing adult-onset diabetes than any other ethnic group.

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