Living in a neighborhood with sidewalks thats close to a host of shopping and exercise venues isnt just about real estate value. New research suggests the type of neighborhood you live in may lower your risk of developing diabetes.
Researchers in Philadelphia say individuals living in neighborhoods conducive to physical activity and providing access to healthy foods had a 38 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than people who live in less healthy places.
“There is unlikely to be a panacea for the obesity epidemic and rising epidemic of type 2 diabetes. However, altering our environments so that healthier behaviors and lifestyles can be easily chosen may be one of the key steps in arresting and reversing these epidemics,” said the studys authors.
Type 2 diabetes is associated with obesity and lack of physical activity. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), it affects as many as 24 million adults and children in the United States, with an additional 57 million Americans at risk for the disease.
Proper diet, maintaining a healthy weight and exercise are considered to be among the best natural ways of preventing diabetes.