Study: Diabetes Increases Risk for Stroke

Sometimes losing weight and quitting bad habits takes a wake-up call.

Today could be that moment for millions of people.

When they turn on their cable tonight or check in with Facebook, they may hear or read a story about how diabetes increases your risk for stroke.

At first glance, this announcement will not come as a big surprise. But, it is for those who have diabetes for many years.

Not only does their risk of stroke increase by 3 percent every year, but after 10 years of living with diabetes, their risk has tripled, according to the study, published in the journal Stroke.

The study revealed that the risk of stroke increased:

• 70 percent in people with diabetes for less than five years;
• 80 percent in people with diabetes for five to 10 years;
• 300 percent in people with diabetes for 10 or more years.

Here’s the good news.

So many people can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes just by taking care of themselves. Eating health foods and exercising can help people lose weight and stay away from type 2 diabetes.

Small steps can make big changes. Switch from white flour to whole wheat. Trade soft drinks for water. Commit to walking 30 minutes every day. Quit smoking.

Your body responds to how you treat it. Be kind to yourself.

Alice Warchol is a freelance health blog writer and fitness instructor.

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