1. Based on the video, what is the relationship of BMI to risk of diabetes?
According to the
video, what are two studies which supply evidence of this?
A higher BMI (obesity and weight gain) dramatically increases the risk of diabetes. According to
the video, a study led by Peter Nordstrom at Umea University in Sweden compared 4,046
genetically identical twins with different levels of body fat over 12 years, and confirmed this
relationship between BMI and diabetes. A second study was Diet Lifestyle and The Risk of Type
II Diabetes Mellitus in Women from 2001, which also concluded that a high BMI is correlated
with type II diabetes.
2. According to Professor Arne Astrup, which of the macronutrients is most likely related to
increased risk of type II diabetes? Why might this be (support your argument based on
the video)?
Carbohydrates are most likely related to increased risk of type II diabetes. In the video, it stated
that this could be because there are people who have pre-diabetes who become more likely to
develop type II diabetes. Carbohydrates are converted to glucose, and in people with
pre-diabetes, this increases blood sugar levels because there is a lack of insulin action.
3. According to Professor Venkat Narayan, why might BMI not be the only determinant of
risk and onset of type II diabetes in low-income countries? What are two pieces of
evidence for this provided in the video?
BMI might not be the only determinant because there are a ton of people who are a normal
weight and underweight who are getting type II diabetes in various countries. One piece of
evidence is that 38% of type II diabetes in a clinic in Kenya was in people who were normal or
underweight. Also in Chennai, India, there is evidence showing that in people with a BMI of less
than 18.5, over 20% have type II diabetes.
4. Quality of nutrition is a major consideration in many places worldwide. According to
Professor Narayan, what is one of the specific major issues with carbohydrate quality in
particular places such as India?
In Southeast Asia and in Sub Saharan Africa, nutrition quality is generally inadequate because
refined carbs are a major source of calories. Narayan specifically said that in Southern India,
over 70% of calories consumed comes from only white rice. There are very few vegetables and
fruits in the food there, along with proteins.
5. We have learned in lecture that specific carbohydrate-containing foods such as whole
grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts should be part of a well-balanced diet. Which specific
type of carbohydrate is common in all of these foods, and has been shown to help with
prevention and management of diabetes?
Fats are common in all of these foods, and have been shown to help with prevention and
management of diabetes.
6. In the video summary, what are two specific considerations that should be integrated in
the worldwide prevention and treatment of type II diabetes?
There should be diets tailored to personal and cultural preferences. Also the importance of good
food quality should be emphasized in every country.
