Diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association, is caused when "the body doesn't produce or properly use insulin." Insulin converts starches and sugars into fuel for the body.

While the exact cause is still unknown, the ADA points to studies that have concluded genetics and lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of exercise appear to be linked to the disease.

9 Surprising diabetes risks

1. Watching two or more hours of TV daily

Raises your risk: 14 percent

How: More TV equals less activity.

The fix: Limit TV time to 10 hours a week and exercise.

2. Drinking one soda a day

Raises your risk: 83 percent

How: Soda adds extra and empty calories, which can easily lead to weight gain.

The fix: Switch to water, diet soda, or even better, unsweetened tea, which may actually protect against disease.

3. Skipping breakfast

Raises your risk: up to 50 percent

How: Not having that morning meal increases the appetite-stimulating hormone ghrelin, making you hungrier and likely to eat more.

The fix: Eat high-fiber cereal with low-fat milk and one-half cup of fruit in the morning. One study of people with prediabetes found that eating high- fiber cereals made their cells respond better to insulin. Consuming dairy products may also cut the risk for insulin resistance by 72 percent.

4. A bout of major depression

Raises your risk: 23 percent

How: Depression may alter body chemistry in a way that makes us more prone to developing diabetes.

The fix: Take a walk. Just 30 minutes, three times a week, has been shown to improve symptoms of depression.

More information: http://www.tcmadvisory.com/2007/3-26/200732615646.html