News

Obesity and diabetes are two of the most common health issues, and they’re closely connected. Studies show that around 80 percent of people with type 2 diabetes are also either overweight or obese. This strong connection highlights obesity as a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes.

Obesity, particularly when fat accumulates around the abdomen, can lead to chronic inflammation in the body, says Dr Arush Sabharwal, Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon at SCOD Clinic. “This inflammation disrupts how the body responds to insulin, a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. Later, the body becomes resistant to insulin, causing blood sugar to rise and eventually leading to type 2 diabetes,” he says.

Fat, or adipose, tissue is active in the body. It releases hormones and chemicals that can interfere with insulin. “When a person is obese, the balance of these hormones can be thrown off, increasing the risk of insulin resistance and impairing the body’s ability to process glucose. Once you develop diabetes, obesity can make things worse. It increases the risk of serious complications, like heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and even vision loss. That’s why managing weight early on is crucial, both for preventing diabetes and for managing it,” Dr Sabharwal says.

Link between obesity and diabetes: Once you develop diabetes, obesity can make things worse. It increases the risk of serious complications, like heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and even vision loss (Image: Canva)

Also read | Type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease: The dangerous connection you need to know, tips to lower risk

Even small weight loss, he suggests, can make a difference. Losing just 5–10 percent of body weight, he says, can help improve how the body uses insulin and lower blood sugar levels. This can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes in people who are at risk.

How to prevent diabetes:

Making simple lifestyle changes, like eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep, Dr Sabharwal says, can go a long way in preventing diabetes. In some cases, medical treatments or weight-loss surgery may be considered, particularly for people with severe obesity and poorly controlled diabetes.

Also read | Why is obesity growing in India? Experts list causes of the epidemic

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.

Discover the latest Business News, Budget 2025 News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

${res.must_watch_article[0].headline}

Stock Market Holiday Jammu Kashmir News Live Tim Cook Delhi Rain Heatwave in India Odisha 10th Result 2025 WB Madhyamik Result SSLC Result 2025 Kolkata News IPL Points Table 2025

Business Markets Stocks India News City News Economy Mutual Funds Personal Finance IPO News Startups

Home Currencies Commodities Pre-Market IPO Global Market Bonds

Home Loans up to 50 Lakhs Credit Cards Lifetime Free Finance TrackerNew Fixed Deposits Fixed Deposit Comparison Fixed Income

Home MC 30 Top Ranked Funds ETFs Mutual Fund Screener

Income Tax Calculator EMI Calculator Retirement Planning Gratuity Calculator

Stock Markets

News18 Firstpost CNBC TV18 News18 Hindi Cricketnext Overdrive Topper Learning

About Us Contact Us Advisory Alert Advertise with Us SupportDisclaimer Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Terms & Conditions Financial Terms (Glossary) Sitemap Investors

You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user.