Above 40 with type 2 diabetes? Here is what you need to know!

Diabetes is a condition in which there is too much glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the body's organs. Possible long-term effects include damage to large (macrovascular) and small (microvascular) blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack, stroke, and problems with the kidneys, eyes, gums, feet, and nerves.

The good news is that you can reduce the risk of the long-term effects of diabetes by keeping your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels within the recommended range. Also, being a healthy weight, eating healthily, reducing alcohol intake, and not smoking will help reduce your risk.

Regular check-ups and screening are important to pick up any problems early.

If you have diabetes it’s important to include a wide variety of nutritious and healthy foods in your diet and to avoid snacking on sugary foods.

Enjoy a variety of foods from each food group – be sure to include foods high in fiber and low in fat and reduce your salt intake.

If you are overweight, even losing a small amount of weight, especially around the abdomen, helps to lower your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels.

It can be difficult trying to lose weight, so to get started set yourself a short-term, achievable goal. Try thinking about the food you are eating, whether you really need it, if it's a healthy choice, and consider the portion size.