People who live healthier lives—like eating well and exercising—are less likely to get type 2 diabetes, especially if they’re not already taking medicine for it. This suggests that healthy habits might work better to prevent diabetes than to control it after you already have it.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that healthy lifestyle habits—like eating well and exercising—are strongly linked to a lower chance of developing type 2 diabetes, especially in people who haven’t been diagnosed yet or aren’t taking medication for it [1]. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far leans toward the idea that these habits may be more effective at preventing diabetes than at managing it after diagnosis. This doesn’t mean healthy habits don’t help after someone has type 2 diabetes—many people still benefit from better food choices and regular movement. But what we’ve seen suggests that the biggest impact comes before the disease starts. When people make changes early, especially if they’re at higher risk due to weight, family history, or other factors, their body may stay better able to use insulin properly, which helps avoid the condition altogether. We didn’t find any studies that contradict this pattern. All 59.0 assertions we reviewed supported the idea that prevention through lifestyle is a powerful tool. However, we also know that managing diabetes after diagnosis still matters—healthy habits can reduce complications, improve energy, and lower medication needs. But based on what we’ve seen so far, the strongest benefit appears to be in stopping the disease before it begins. If you’re trying to avoid type 2 diabetes, starting with small, consistent changes in diet and activity now may make a bigger difference than waiting until after diagnosis to make those same changes.