4 Common Habits That Could Actually Lead To Diabetes, According To Experts: ‘Cause Blood Sugar To Rise’

June 6, 2024 by Faith Geiger

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Living a healthy lifestyle is paramount for overall well-being, encompassing both physical and mental health. From regular exercise to mindful eating, adopting healthy habits plays a vital role in preventing chronic diseases and promoting longevity. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the impact of our habits on our health. One condition where lifestyle choices play a critical role is diabetes. We recently spoke to Kimberley Wiemann MS, RDN, a registered dietitian, owner of Kimberley Wiemann Nutrition LLC, and nutrition consultant for Consumer Health Digest, to shed light on how common habits can significantly influence the development of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes, a complex metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, affects millions worldwide and poses serious health risks if left unmanaged. While genetics may predispose some individuals to diabetes, lifestyle factors play a crucial role in its onset and progression. According to Wiemann, certain habits, if left unchecked, can contribute to the development of diabetes. From sedentary behaviors after meals to late-night indulgences in sugary treats, these habits can lead to prolonged elevation of blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes diagnosis. Find all of her expert insight below.

1. Watching TV After Dinner

One common habit that could lead to diabetes is sitting down to watch TV—or participating in another sedentary activity—immediately after dinner. According to Wiemann, "In order to keep blood sugar levels from spiking too high for too long, it is a great idea to go for a walk or stay active after meals, especially dinner." Failure to engage in post-meal movement allows blood sugar levels to remain elevated for longer periods, contributing to the risk of diabetes. Instead, she says, "Engaging in some form of movement helps the body move the sugar from the bloodstream into the cells for energy, thereby lowering blood sugar levels." Got it! There are so many benefits to a post-dinner walk.

2. Late-Night Sweet Treats

Indulging in sweet desserts late at night can also increase the risk of diabetes. "Many desserts are high in sugars which will not surprisingly cause blood sugar levels to rise," Weimann says, especially if followed by inactivity. This prolonged elevation in blood sugar levels can lead to elevated A1C levels, a marker for diabetes diagnosis. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy, low-sugar desserts to choose instead.

3. Calorie Restriction

If you're trying to lose weight, following a restrictive diet can often seem like the fastest way to your goals. However, this comes with many downsides—including when it comes to your blood sugar levels. Focusing solely on restricting calories can be detrimental for individuals at risk of diabetes. Wiemann stresses that "the quality of the diet and the breakdown of nutrients" is more important than the number of calories consumed. Simply cutting calories may lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients like protein and fiber-rich carbohydrates, which are essential for proper nourishment and diabetes prevention.

4. Avoiding Carbs

Despite misconceptions, avoiding carbohydrates altogether can be counterproductive for diabetes prevention. Wiemann explains that "healthy, fiber-rich carbohydrates can help prevent or manage diabetes" by slowing digestion and preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. Fiber-rich carbohydrates aid in slowing the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of elevated blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.

Bottom line

Ultimately, addressing these common habits and making positive lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing diabetes. Wiemann emphasizes the importance of incorporating regular physical activity, mindful eating habits, and a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients to promote overall health and prevent diabetes onset.

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according to heatlh experts, blood sugar, diabetes, Food, unhealthy habits, wellness, worst habits for blood sugar

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