There is no clear way to determine who will or will not develop diabetes. Diabetes is a complex condition because it is not reliant entirely upon genes but also on a combination of genes and lifestyle factors to develop. Some people have more genetic cards stacked against them while others have few genetic cards and plenty of lifestyle odds.

Interestingly, there are many links to childhood traits and the development of diabetes in adulthood, some of which may be more obvious, and others more unexpected. Obvious or not, there are childhood lifestyle and biological habits to keep stock of.

4 Childhood Diabetes Links

#1. Childhood Obesity

Several studies have found that children who are obese are as much as four times more likely to develop diabetes later in life. Although not all children who struggle with obesity continue to struggle with weight issues into adulthood, many do find themselves battling Type 2 diabetes. Happily, eliminating obesity while still in childhood decreases the likelihood of Type 2 developing.

#2. Low Birth Weight

Interestingly, low birth weight and subsequent difficulty gaining weight in the first year are linked to a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in adulthood. Researchers believe this link is largely due to an ineffective metabolic system in utero and early childhood, which can follow children well into adulthood and beyond. The result: metabolic disorders such as diabetes.

#3. Sedentary Lifestyle

Unfortunately, living a sedentary lifestyle is a difficult habit to kick, and children often continue these types of behaviors, resulting in the development not only of diabetes but also of obesity and heart disease. Just as exercise is an incredibly powerful tool for preventing and managing diabetes, failing to exercise regularly can sharply increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes developing.

#4. Depression

As with adults, depression has been linked to the development of diabetes. The most common hypothesis is that depression can severely impact the body’s metabolic processes, as well as the body’s hormonal processes, both of which help regulate and manage blood sugar. Depression can also lead to living a sedentary lifestyle, further increasing the chances of diabetes onset.

Although experiencing risk factors in childhood does not guarantee the onset of diabetes in adulthood, each of the factors above can warrant a closer eye on your blood sugar and eating habits.