Type 2 diabetes, which is the type that is commonly associated with lifestyle habits, is preventable. Losing just 5 percent of body weight can reduce an obese person's risk of developing the disease. That translates to just 10 pounds for a 200-pound individual.

Engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical exercise at least five days per week and consuming fewer calories are two obvious keys to success. Eating a variety of healthy foods is also important.

The American Diabetes Association suggests 10 healthy eating habits that may help prevent diabetes:

1. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially non-starchy types such as spinach, carrots, broccoli or green beans.
2. Favor whole grains -- e.g., brown rice or whole wheat pasta -- over processed grain foods.
3. Include dried beans and lentils in your meals.
4. Eat fish two or three times a week.
5. Favor lean meats and poultry. Loin cuts of beef and pork tend to be leaner. Remove the skin from chicken and turkey.
6. Choose nonfat dairy products such as skim milk, nonfat yogurt and nonfat cheese.
7. Avoid soda, fruit punch, sweet tea and other sugar-sweetened drinks.
8. Choose liquid oils for cooking instead of solid fats.
9. Limit snack foods and desserts like chips, cookies, cakes and ice cream.
10. Reduce portion sizes.

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