Warning: Early puberty increases your daughter's diabetes risk 70%

New research published in the Diabetes Care journal, reveals that “girls who menstruate early have high chances of developing type II diabetes in their adulthood,” announces News Fix.

After studying the lives of 15,000 women, researchers found that girls who began to menstruate between the ages of 8 and 11 were 70% more likely to develop type II diabetes than those who began to menstruate at age 13, the median age, adds Medline Plus.

The reason?

What’s the link between early menstruation and type II diabetes?

They’re not too sure.

But they believe it could be because early puberty has an “effect on metabolic disease risk, which is partially mediated by increased BMI [a measurement of body fat based on height and weight], but also has some direct effect through other biological pathways which act independently of adiposity [body fat],” reveals health24.

And while early puberty is hard to prevent – although certain environmental factors like eating organic foods can help – there are habits you can help her develop that’ll limit her type II diabetes risk...

So how can you lower your teen’s diabetes risk?

Among these habits, kidshealth.org suggests you:

• Instil healthy eating habits in your kids by encouraging them to choose low-fat, nutrient-rich foods like whole-grain cereals and breads, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and lean proteins. And limit sugary foods and drinks. Doing this can help them control their weight – and, as you know, being just 2kg overweight can significantly increase your type II diabetes risk.
• Take your child to a registered dietician if she struggles with her weight.
• Encourage your children to take part in physical activities like sport or walking the dog. 

Incidents of type II diabetes in children have risen 45% in the past ten years. By knowing what puts your children at risk, you can ensure you’re taking steps to protect them.