It’s widely believed that the development of Type 2 diabetes is both genetic and lifestyle related. However, exactly how much either of those two factors impacts one’s predisposition to diabetes is unclear.
As such, a group of Australian researchers set out to find out how family history factors into Type 2 diabetes, according to an article from the New York Times. Those researchers recruited 41 men and women, half of which had a history of Type 2 diabetes in their immediate families. The study participants were asked to overeat – to consume 1,250 extra calories per day, while eating a high-fat diet.
What the researchers found was that those with a family history of diabetes fared much worse. They gained more weight and showed greater insulin resistance after just one month. Those with a family history of diabetes gained 7.5 pounds, while those without the genetic link gained an average of just 4.8 pounds.
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As per the experience with my family this article is true, as my uncle had diabetes and so my father now, so persons with diabetes history on their families should start taking care of themselves since they are young.