To many, the prospect of developing Type 2 Diabetes can be overwhelmingly
frightening. This seems to be the case especially if you have family members or
friends who have developed the disease. But as you probably know, while the
potential to develop Type 2 Diabetes is genetic, your lifestyle choices can
significantly impact and influence your future. And if you're anything like me,
that knowledge is motivation to learn the most I can about the factors included
in living a healthier lifestyle. The more I know, the more I can be proactive
in reducing the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes - for me, and my loved ones.
In a recent Australian study, researchers studied the
correlation between our surroundings and the risk of developing Type 2
Diabetes. They found that lower rates
of diabetes were found in areas with higher
amounts of open, green space. For example, in neighborhoods with 0-20% of green
space, the rate of Type 2 Diabetes among participants was 9.1%. But the
percentage decreased to 8% in neighborhoods with over 40% of green space.
Interestingly enough, this pattern was consistent in all neighborhoods, regardless
of its economic status. This suggests that regardless of your background,
living near open green areas can reduce your risk of Type 2 Diabetes. These
findings are consistent with previous studies, all of which suggest that living
near open, green areas encourage more active lifestyles, thereby reducing the
risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
So, what can we do with this information? For one, be
mindful of this data if you do happen to be making a move. Be aware of the amount
of green, open space when weighing the pros and cons of your potential new
location. And for those of us that can't exactly pick up and move to greener
pastures? In that case, become involved in your local government. Let your
representatives know that you support the building of new parks. Inform your
neighbors of the benefits that accompany increased access to nature, and how it
can prevent and hamper the ever increasing spread of Type 2 Diabetes. And
thirdly, appreciate and take advantage of whatever green space you do have in
your neighborhood. Step away from the screen, and venture outside. Remember:
more green, means less diabetes.
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