Losing up to 10% of weight
in diabetes reduces
your heart risk *
How obesity is related to diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a complex chronic disease that occurs when the body cannot make enough insulin or use it effectively. Almost 9 out of 10 people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese [1]. When you gain excess weight, your cell stop responding well to insulin. This makes it harder for your body to control blood sugar [2].
Did you know?
Shedding just 5% to 7% of your body weight can significantly reduceyour risk of developing type 2 diabetes [3].
When weight and sugar take a toll
Serious complications associated with type 2 diabetes and obesity to watch out for:
Know your number, know your risk
Calculating your BMI (Body Mass Index) isn't just about a number — it's the first step in understanding and managing your health more effectively, especially if you're living with obesity and diabetes. Here's how:
Awareness: BMI helps to identify your risk of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney issues.
Prevention: Recognizing a high BMI early encourages lifestyle changes before serious health complications develop.
Tracking Progress: BMI provides a baseline for monitoring weight loss or diabetes control. Even a 5-10% weight reduction can improve blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
Personalization: Doctors use BMI to tailor diet, exercise, and treatment - deciding whether lifestyle changes or advanced therapies are needed.
Motivation: Visible improvement in BMI reinforces healthy habits and keeps you engaged in your wellness journey.
Calculate your BMI [10]
Know your Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI (Body Mass Index) is defined as a measure of a person’s body fat as a result of the weight in relation to height, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
“It helps assess whether a person is underweight, healthy, overweight, or obese, indicating potential health risks.”
Your BMI is
Your weight is in the underweight range
This may be due to a variety of reasons. With the right nutrition and expert support, it's absolutely possible to move toward a healthier weight and feel your best.
Your BMI is
Your weight is in a healthy range!
You are doing great! Keep exercising and keep eating healthy. Wishing you good health!
Your BMI is
You're in the overweight category
The good news? Small, expert-guided adjustments can make a big difference to your health and energy levels.
Your BMI is
You're in the obese category
Your results indicate obesity, a complex medical condition that might not be your fault. It can be effectively managed with personalized guidance and care.
#Healthbytes:What doctors have to say
Unravel the #Weightofdiabetes
When it comes to diabetes and weight, myths often outweigh facts. Let’s uncover what’s really true.
Got questions? Ask away
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing diabetes for years, our doctors are here to simplify the journey for you. Connect with our experts for clear, practical advice on diabetes, weight, and metabolic health.
Get in touch with us
Person(s) in image is a model and not a doctor/counsellor
Hear the stories of lowering the #Weightofdiabetes
I’ve turned my daily battles into victories - managing type 2 diabetes with strength
Rybani Ghosh
Even in my golden years, I’ve learned to manage type 2 diabetes with confidence
Dr. Sharma
After years of struggle, I now manage type 2 diabetes and feel truly in control
Lauren Samuel
I was scared at first, but today I actively manage my type 2 diabetes with balance
Sneha Gulati
Every small step helped me manage type 2 diabetes and reclaim my life with confidence
G. Pillai
Managing type 2 diabetes has helped me live stronger, healthier, happier
Harsh Shah
I'm finally in control of my type 2 diabetes and my life feels lighter again
Semant Joshi
Life, work, and type 2 diabetes - I’ve found the balance to manage it all
Peter Rebello
Patient names and images have been altered to protect privacy.
Frequently asked questions
What happens in the body when someone has type 2 diabetes?
What are the main causes of type 2 diabetes?
- Insulin resistance: The body's cells become resistant to the action of insulin.
- Impaired insulin secretion: The pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to overcome insulin resistance.
- Genetic factors: A family history of diabetes increases the risk.
- Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, physical inactivity, and obesity are major contributors.
What lifestyle factors can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes?
- Physical inactivity
- Poor diet high in sugars and fats
- Overweight and obesity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
What lifestyle changes are recommended for managing type 2 diabetes?
- Recommended lifestyle changes for managing type 2 diabetes include [16,17] :
- Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Physical activity: Engaging in regular exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
- Weight management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Smoking cessation: Avoiding tobacco use.
- Stress management: Practicing stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness and relaxation exercises.
How does being overweight or obese contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes?
- Being overweight or obese contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes by
[18] :
- Increasing insulin resistance, which requires the pancreas to produce more insulin to keep blood glucose levels normal.
- Promoting the release of fatty acids and inflammatory markers from adipose tissue, which can impair insulin signaling.
- Over time, the pancreas may not be able to produce sufficient insulin to overcome this resistance, leading to hyperglycaemia.
Why is it important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly?
- Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important because it [19] :
- Helps to identify and manage hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia.
- Enables timely adjustments to diet, exercise, and medication.
- Reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications.
- Provides data to tailor treatment plans for optimal diabetes management.
How can managing diet and exercise help in preventing type 2 diabetes?
- Managing diet and exercise can help in preventing type 2 diabetes by [20] :
- Improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by cells.
- Reducing body weight and visceral fat, which are major contributors to insulin resistance.
- Lowering blood glucose levels and improving overall metabolic health.
- Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is often associated with diabetes.
How much exercise is recommended for people with diabetes?
- The recommended amount of exercise for people with diabetes is [20] :
- At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like dancing, swimming, spread over at least 3 days a week with no more than 2 consecutive days without activity.
- 2-3 sessions per week of resistance exercise on non-consecutive days.
- Flexibility and balance training 2-3 times per week, especially for older adults.
How can you work with your doctor to find the right medication for you?
- You can work with your doctor to find the right medication for you by [21] :
- Discussing your medical history and any current medications.
- Reviewing your blood glucose levels and A1C results.
- Considering any side effects or contraindications.
- Discussing your lifestyle, preferences, and concerns.
- Regularly monitoring and adjusting the treatment plan as needed.
What should you do if you miss a dose of your diabetes medication?
-
If you miss a dose of your diabetes medication, you should [21] :
- Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication label.
- Generally, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose.
- Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
- Consult your healthcare provider for specific guidance.
References:
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Type 2 diabetes and Metabolic Surgery. Available from: https://asmbs.org/resources/type-2-diabetes-and-metabolic-surgery-fact-sheet/
- Hardy OT, Czech MP, Corvera S. What causes the insulin resistance underlying obesity? Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes. 2012 Apr;19(2):81-7. doi: 10.1097/MED.0b013e3283514e13. PMID: 22327367; PMCID: PMC4038351.
- NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Understanding Adult Overweight & Obesity. Health Risks. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/adult-overweight-obesity/health-risks
- Carls G, Huynh J, Tuttle E, Yee J, Edelman SV. Achievement of Glycated Hemoglobin Goals in the US Remains Unchanged Through 2014. Diabetes Ther. 2017 Aug;8(4):863-873. doi: 10.1007/s13300-017- 0280-5. Epub 2017 Jun 23. PMID: 28646411; PMCID: PMC5544616. [CKHK (Chetna Kaushik)]
- Helman B, Neveux M, Jiménez BY. Obesity and type 2 diabetes: a Joint Approach to Halt the Rise. International Diabetes Federation and World Obesity Federation, 2022.
- Cosentino F, Grant PJ, Aboyans V, et al. 2019 ESC Guidelines on diabetes, pre-diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases developed in collaboration with the EASD. Eur Heart J. 2020;41(2):255-323. doi:10.1093/eurheart/ehz486.
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of care in diabetes–2025. Diabetes Care. 2025.
- Low Wang CC, Hess CN, Hiatt WR, et al. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and heart failure in type 2 diabetes – mechanisms, management, and clinical considerations. Circulation. 2016;133(24):2459-2502. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.116.022194.
- Einarson TR, Acs A, Ludwig C, et al. Prevalence of cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes: a systematic literature review (2007–2017). Cardiovasc Diabetol. 2018;17(1):83. doi:10.1186/s12933-018-0728-6.
- Iqbal A, Rehman A. Obesity Brain Gut Adipocyte Interaction. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Updated 2023 Jul 4. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025–. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551660/figure/article-35266.image.f1/
- Gatineau M et al. Adult obesity and type 2 diabetes. Oxford: Public Health England, 2014. Ng ACT et al. Nat Rev Cardiol. 2021;18:291–304.
- Standards of Care in Diabetes–2025. Diabetes Care. 2025 Jan 1;48(Suppl 1):S181–S206.
- Dal Canto E et al. Eur J Prev Cardiol. 2019 Dec;26(2 Suppl):25–32.
- Adapted from Diabetes – Causes, symptoms & treatments | BHF. Available from: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/diabetes (Accessed 24-Jan-2025)
- Adapted from Know Your Facts About Diabetes | American Diabetes Association. Available from: https://diabetes.org/diabetes (Accessed 03-Mar-2025)
- Adapted from Understanding type 2 diabetes | ADA. Available from: https://diabetes.org/diabetes/type-2 (Accessed 24-Jan-2025)
- Gopisetty D et al. How does diabetes affect daily life? A beyond-A1C perspective on unmet needs. Clinical Diabetes. 2018;36(2):133–7.
- Obesity and Weight Management for the Prevention and Treatment of type 2 diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes–2025. Diabetes Care. 2025;48(Suppl 1):S167–S180.
- Glycemic Goals and Hypoglycaemia: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care. 2025;48(Suppl 1):S128–S145.
- Facilitating Positive Health Behaviors and Well-being to Improve Health Outcomes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care. 2025;48(Suppl 1):S86–S127.
- Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care. 2025;48(Suppl 1):S181–S206.