Health Alert: The Link Between Belly Fat and Diabetes

Anyone who has experienced a significant weight gain has likely been warned by their family doctor to adopt a strict diet and exercise regimen to steer clear of diabetes. But are they truly connected? More than you might think. According to Dr. Maya Ish-Shalom, a diabetes specialist at the Endocrinology Institute in Ichilov, excess weight is the main cause of rising diabetes rates. "When we gain weight, especially around the belly, it involves releasing various substances from fat cells that create resistance to insulin activity in the body."

These fat cells, when interacting with the hormone insulin, essentially 'block its path' and prevent it from absorbing sugar into our various body cells. Numerous studies in the field suggest various treatments like proper nutrition to reduce fat and sugar levels, regular physical activity, taking supplements, drinking sage tea, and drastic lifestyle changes alongside medication, if necessary.

So why is sugar so harmful to us?

Research shows a direct connection between heart disease and increased sugar consumption. Additionally, it's a 'closed cycle': the more sugar one consumes, the more the body becomes 'addicted' to the taste and demands more sweets, leaving it in an endless battle against obesity and thereby increasing one's risk of various illnesses.

Research conducted about a decade ago at Princeton University, USA, reveals the astonishing fact: the brain can become dependent on the sugars we consume, even in relatively small quantities. Immediately afterward, the American Heart Association recommended consuming five percent less than the daily dietary requirement of sugars, and to closely monitor our craving for sweets as long as it exists.