Is Type 2 diabetes genetic? Like so many things in life, there are no simple answers. All the same, it’s safe to say that if other people in your family have Type 2 diabetes, you could be at higher risk of getting it too. In this article we’ll look at Type 2 diabetes and genes, how to find out if you’re genetically predisposed to Type 2 diabetes, and what you can do about it.

Is Type 2 Diabetes Hereditary?

Identical twins have identical genes, and that makes twin studies very helpful in determining the heritability of certain traits including a predisposition to Type 2 diabetes. So far, there’s strong evidence to confirm that Type 2 diabetes can have genetic roots.

Researchers have found that certain gene mutations can be linked to Type 2 diabetes. The genes in question all have a role in determining how your body manages blood glucose levels. They may affect the production of glucose, the way your body produces and regulates its insulin levels, or the way your body senses elevated glucose levels before responding.

To illustrate this, we can look at some of the genes that have been linked to an elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes.

  • TCF7L2 influences the secretion of insulin and the production of glucose.
  • ABCC8 has a role in regulating insulin.
  • CAPN10 was identified among people with Mexican origins or lineage and is associated with Type 2 diabetes
  • GLUT2 has a role in determining how glucose moves to the pancreas.
  • GCGR is associated with hormonal regulation of glucose.

But here’s the interesting fact: carrying genes that may predispose you to develop Type 2 diabetes doesn't mean that you’re sure to develop the condition. It all comes down to elevated risk, and whether these genetic weaknesses express themselves depends to a large degree on environmental factors, many of which you’re able to control.

Genetic Testing for Type 2 Diabetes

If one or more of your family members have Type 2 Diabetes, you may be interested in going for genetic testing. But while it can be done, it’s worth asking yourself how useful it might be.

Just knowing that Type 2 diabetes runs in your family is a strong hint that you may have these genes. Having their presence confirmed doesn’t actually do anything for you. On the other hand, adopting a healthier lifestyle is a good thing, regardless of your genes, and there’s a strong chance that in doing so, you can strengthen your body so that it doesn’t fall victim to the condition after all.

In fact, scientists say that there are far more accurate ways to predict your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes than looking at your genetic makeup. Your body mass index or BMI is the first of these. To a certain extent, genes play a role in how likely you are to become overweight, but we should also consider that we “inherit” dietary preferences based on the eating habits we develop as children.

Simply switching to a healthy diet that includes lots of fruit and veggies, cuts down on fat and sugar, and includes more white meats like fish or chicken would be a big help. Of course,  limiting portion sizes, and getting enough exercise could make a huge difference too.  We may not be able to change our genes, but we can adjust our lifestyles!

Type 2 Diabetes and Your Children

If you have children and you have Type 2 diabetes, you’ll be concerned that you may have passed on “diabetes genes” to your little ones. The most important thing to remember in this case is that you can teach them habits that will drastically reduce their chances of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Since these habits are good for you too, everybody gets to win.

The most important thing you can do is to ensure that everybody in the family eats a healthy diet. You might have felt that feeding your family the kind of foods that are good for you as a person living with Diabetes was unfair, but the truth is that your healthy diet can become their healthy habit!

You can also encourage your children’s interest in sports and take them along for walks, hikes, runs, and bike rides. An active, healthy lifestyle is a habit, and the best time to learn good habits is in childhood. While you’re at it, talk to them about why being active and eating well are so important. Teaching these valuable lessons is your way of safeguarding their lifelong health.

Protecting Your Family’s Future

While you’re thinking about the legacy you’ll leave to the next generation, do consider your family’s financial health too. Would your children enjoy the future you’d like them to have if you were to pass away unexpectedly? Having diabetes doesn't necessarily mean you’ll suffer an untimely death, but it certainly makes getting life insurance much more difficult! Is there a solution?

Blueberry Life’s life insurance for type 2 diabetes was developed by a team of insurance underwriters and doctors, and it acknowledges that well-managed diabetes doesn’t equate to a high-risk profile and the inflated insurance premiums that go with elevated risk. Anyone who has a family should be concerned about their financial future and take steps to protect loved ones in the event of their death. But people living with Type 2 diabetes often face long waits before their life insurance is approved - and when it does get approved, the premiums they pay may be higher than they should be.  

Been there, done that? Maybe it’s time you considered Blueberry Life! Apply now. Get approval fast. Compare your options. We’re confident you’ll choose Blueberry Life's specialised insurance for people living with chronic conditions.