ABSTRACT
Approximately 10 million Americans have Type II diabetes, or noninsulin dependent diabetes. This form accounts for 90% of the diabetes in the United States and is a major cause of increased morbidity and mortality (National Diabetes Data Group, 1985). Obesity is a well-established risk factor for Type II diabetics, and 60–80% of individuals who develop Type II diabetes are obese. Moreover, the combination of obesity and diabetes increases the risk of mortality from diabetes. Not only is obesity related to the chances of developing diabetes and mortality from this disease, but also weight loss is the treatment of choice. Weight loss improves blood glucose control and lipid levels and thus, hopefully, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetic complications.
