Diabetes is a major public health problem that is approaching epidemic proportions globally. In our country and worldwide the prevalence of this chronic disease is increasing at an alarming rate.

Diabetes is certain to be one of the most challenging health problems in the 21 st century.

Each year seven million people develop diabetes and mostly the populations of developing countries where there have been rapid and major changes in life style are affected.

Diabetes is a costly disease, not only for affected individuals and their families, but also for the health systems.

Obesity is one of the principal risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Weight gain leads to insulin resistance through several mechanisms.

Reaching the ideal weight by Life style modifications and regular exercise can reduce the incidence of diabetes by %50.

Learning how to eat right is an important part of controlling diabetes. Life style modifications and adding regular exercise is a key factor in controlling this chronic disease.

Keywords: life style, nutrition, obesity, physical activity, type 2 diabetes