Type two diabetes is set to double in the coming decade and many of the factors responsible are laid down in childhood. "There"s a lot of research to show that obesity, lack of exercise and poor diet lead to type two diabetes in adulthood," says Mairi Benson of Diabetes UK.

"By watching TV, using computers and being driven to school, children are far more inactive than they were 20 years ago.

"Also, they tend to eat more snacky, high-fat meals and sugary foods - all these significantly raise both obesity and diabetes risk later on."

How to diffuse: Ensure you eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day (portions may include a fruit drink, raisins or a fruit yoghurt), avoid confectionery and replace sweet fizzy drinks with low-calorie alternatives. Do some exercise every day - a 30-minute walk can cut diabetes risk by over 50 per cent.