Diabetes is a disease which affects many Canadians, and we are being told our children are at risk to develop Type 2 Diabetes early in their adult lives. Most people believe diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar.

Well – yes and no.

Genetics play a major part in whether you will get diabetes. Overweight is also a significant contributor, though many people who are overweight never go on to getting diabetes.   Some people who are not overweight get diabetes.

A healthy diet and regular moderate exercise go a long way to preventing Type 2 Diabetes. A healthy diet means low carbohydrate (which is starch and sugar) and low fat. So it isn’t just about sugar!

Now, back to sugar….

Assuming the word “healthy” can be used in the same sentence as “sugar”, it is a fact that some sugars are “healthier” than others.

The natural fructose found in fruits and vegetables, while still sugar, is balanced by the fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants included in the fruit. We all should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

What we particularly want to avoid is fructose which is added to our food.   Commercial baked goods, such as muffins and donuts, contain high amounts of table sugar, fructose, and glucose. Canned soft drinks, and even fruit punch are packed with calories and undesirable sugars. Be careful with sport and energy drinks: you are not doing your body any favors unless you happen to be running a marathon and need the additional calories.

Cut back significantly on pastries and soft drinks, perhaps reduce your portion sizes by just 10%, and you may find your weight problem melting away. Even better, you may be preventing diabetes from entering your life.

Think about this at your next business meeting, and instead of serving pastries, try offering fruit, or hummus and crackers. Those who are already living healthy will thank you, and those who know they should make changes may be motivated to do so.