CrossFit and Diabetes

Approximately 537 million people around the world have diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2). Type 1 diabetes — an autoimmune condition — can develop suddenly or be present at birth and may be caused by genetics. Type 2 diabetes develops over time, with lifestyle (exercise and nutrition) being the biggest risk factor. The disease increases the likelihood of eventual limb amputation, blindness, heart attack, and stroke, and is one of the leading causes of kidney failure.

But as Type 2 diabetes prevalence continues to rise, there are some places where the numbers fall back. Havens of health where the tide of chronic disease not only goes out, but dries up altogether. They exist in among the 13,000 CrossFit gyms around the globe. Below you’ll find stories of how CrossFit helped some reverse their Type 2 diabetes and others control their symptoms of Type 1.