Being overweight is a risk factor for developing Type 2 diabetes, and someone who has close relatives with the disorder is at even greater risk. A University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign student who has been diagnosed with prediabetes may feel alarmed and newly dedicated to reversing the problem. Moving to UIUC off-campus housing with a 24-hour fitness center can be part of the solution. Having a private kitchen helps too.
The Importance of Physical Activity
Exercise alone typically isn’t enough for weight loss, although people who spend a lot of time on vigorous activity may do so. Nevertheless, regular physical activity helps prevent Type 2 diabetes and can have an important role in reversing prediabetes.
Aerobic and Resistance Exercise
The student may want to focus on moderate-to-intense aerobic activity since that burns the most calories. That doesn’t mean not engaging in muscle resistance exercise, though. Both forms of activity reduce blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
A Private Kitchen
Another health-related advantage of UIUC off-campus housing compared with residence hall life is being able to prepare nutritious, tasty meals in one’s own kitchen. Although there may be some temptation when seeing and smelling high-calorie food the roommates cook or bring home, choosing from an array of dishes at campus dining commons is well-recognized as a potential problem. The “freshman 15” refers to the tendency for college students to gain weight during that first year.
Students interested in moving to an apartment community with a 24-hour fitness center may start by visiting The Village at Colbert Park today.
