Metabolism never stops. It either becomes more or less efficient. Diabetes in all its forms, is caused by insulin resistance, or lower insulin production by the pancreas. Insulin is one of the enzymes which guides and controls metabolism of blood sugars. Sugar and carb intake, in excess of immediate energy usage is stored as fat, converted to blood sugars as our cells require energy. When not fully metabolized, the excess blood sugars usually tend to calcify along arterial walls, causing peripheral blood flow issues, arterial blockages as the narrowing and less flexible arteries become clotted from calcifications dropping off the arterial walls and blocking blood flow, causing strokes and heart attacks. Corrective medications, including injections of insulin when necessary, dietary controls and exercise can control blood sugar issues. Exercise is the best therapy of the bunch. It burns the blood sugars and can reverse the calcification over time. Walking and swimming have been found to be the best overall exercises, not the speed, but the movement. Also makes you friskier, and keeps the wife happier.
One of the best incentives for walking is a dog. Plenty of rescue dogs need homes. And they can clean dishes before you dirty them up. Any food accidentally dropped on the floor mysteriously disappears. Do not leave pies and cakes cooling where the dog can reach them. Never turn your back on a hamburger or steak. Not for one second of time. Guard all ice cream. Zealously protect beer.
