How does obesity contribute to Type 2 diabetes?

Obesity contributes to Type 2 diabetes primarily by increasing insulin resistance. In individuals with obesity, particularly those with excess visceral fat, the body becomes less responsive to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This means that even though the pancreas may produce insulin, the body’s cells are unable to effectively use it, leading to higher levels of glucose in the bloodstream.

Excess fat, especially around the abdomen, can release various fatty acids and hormones that interfere with insulin signaling pathways. This disruption leads to the body requiring more insulin to manage blood sugar levels, which can eventually exhaust the pancreatic β-cells that produce insulin. Over time, this can result in impaired insulin secretion, but the initial issue in obesity is primarily insulin resistance.

By contrast, the other options are not correct in the context of the relationship between obesity and Type 2 diabetes. For instance, decreased insulin production may occur over time as a result of the stress on the pancreas caused by prolonged insulin resistance, but it is not the direct result of obesity itself. Increased insulin sensitivity is actually a beneficial metabolic state that is not associated with obesity. Finally, stating that obesity has no effect on diabetes overlooks the strong body of evidence linking excessive weight with the development of insulin resistance and,