Inactive and Overweight

• A USA Today article in June 2009 finds, "An increasing number of children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a condition medical experts blame on a culture steeped in junk food and inactivity that has led to more obese kids. Aggressive early treatment and lifestyle changes can help, and even snuff out disease symptoms." The reasons for this inactivity are varied and include too much sedentary television viewing, hours sitting at a computer, and being driven rather than walking or biking. A CNN report states that one factor is safety. "Parents are not allowing their kids to play after school because of the safety issue and all of the child abuse issues we've seen over the last 15 to 20 years...throw in an almost daily dose of junk food and you've got a recipe for childhood obesity." Childhood obesity and inactivity are lifestyle risks that may lead to type 2 diabetes. Incorporate activity into the daily after-school routine. Limit periods of inactivity to 60 minutes and enjoy family active games and exercise, backyard sports and other activities.
  Limit sweets and other junk foods and concentrate on healthier nutritious snacks such as fruits and whole grain foods. According to JAOA, "In-school intervention efforts may range from eliminating candy and soda in cafeterias and vending machines to mandating 30 to 45 minutes of vigorous physical activity two or three times per week. Children should be educated on appropriate diet and exercise habits from preschool through high school. Education on appropriate dietary habits should include information on how to shop for and prepare healthy, well balanced meals." The family and school must work together to educate and initiate steps to help children follow a healthy lifestyle.
  
  

Ethnicity

• Researchers have found links between the rise in diabetes and ethnic heritage. In "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies" by Frances Sizer, and Ellie Whitney, the authors write, "Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families. Particularly, people of African, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or Pacific Island descent may inherit certain genetic variations that make them susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes. Not every person with these genetic variations suffers the disease...having the genes may increase the risk by about 30 %, but other factors, such as diet and exercise, strongly affect its development."
  Lifestyle choices make a difference and children who maintain a healthy weight, get plenty of exercise and eat a nutritious balanced diet may have "a greatly reduced incidence of type 2 diabetes compared with those with less healthy lifestyles." Be aware of possible genetic influences then incorporate an active, healthy daily routine in your family's life.