Why does being overweight increase the risk of type 2 diabetes?

Being overweight or obese – especially when this weight is stored as excess body fat around the waist and vital organ – is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. But why? Well, it all comes down to insulin.

What does insulin do?

This hormone helps the body convert glucose into energy. Excess body fat acts as a barrier to insulin.1 This contributes to insulin resistance and high blood glucose levels.1 When this happens, the pancreas attempts to release more insulin to counteract high blood glucose. However, the pancreas can’t sustain this overachieving attitude for too long,2 and when production lowers once again, blood glucose levels remain too high.

Why weight to act?

• In pre-diabetes, keeping a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing insulin resistance
• Post diagnosis, carrying excess weight increases the risk of developing additional complications and makes it more difficult to manage diabetes

What’s a healthy weight?

• BMI and waist measurement are two   to indicate if a person's weight is healthy for their height3
• The BMI weight range runs from under 18.5 (underweight) to 30+ (obese)
• Waist measurement suggests increased risk of illness above 80 cm (for women) and 94 cm (for men)
• Neither system is perfect. Factors which can influence accuracy include muscle/fat proportion, ethnicity, age, pregnancy, medical complications and more. Ask your GP or diabetes educator to advise you about your situation.

How can I manage my weight safely?

Slow, incremental weight loss is more sustainable long-term. Incredibly, losing 5-10% of your bodyweight helps prevent type 2 diabetes in nearly 60% of people.4 Start by reducing your portion sizes, increasing your consumption of fibre, protein and fresh produce and aiming to move your body for 30 minutes a day.