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Lyle suggests Leslie see her doctor. Type 2 diabetes runs in their
family, and Leslie’s symptoms are classic. Separate blood tests reveal
glucose levels of 220 and 260 milligrams per deciliter (anything over
126 is high). Leslie does indeed have type 2 diabetes.
Why did Leslie develop diabetes and Lyle didn’t? After all, they both likely
carry the genes for it, not to mention the fact that they’re twins. The key lies
in lifestyle and fitness choices. Think about it. If a potential diabetic never
develops the obesity necessary for jump-starting her genetic disorder, those
genes won’t be activated, and the disease won’t develop. The excess fat sim-
ply isn’t there to trigger it. So by staying fit, we can prevent this kind of dia-
betes’ onset and extend our lives, or at least preserve our quality of life. Each
and every one of us should strive to maintain ideal body weight if we want to
avoid type 2 diabetes.
Why would we want to avoid this disease? Is it really that bad?
Not So Sweet: Diabetes / 33