You don't have to be overweight or obese to get type 2 diabetes. In fact, you can have high blood sugar even if you look thin. Around 10% to 15% of people with type 2 diabetes are at a healthy weight.

Can low BMI cause diabetes?

Summary: Lower body mass index (BMI) is consistently associated with reduced type II diabetes risk, among people with varied family history, genetic risk factors and weight, according to a new study.

Can a skinny person get type 1 diabetes?

Weight is not a risk factor for type 1 diabetes. The only known risk factor for type 1 diabetes is family history, or your genetics. Most people with type 1 diabetes are in the “normal” range for body mass index (BMI). BMI is a way for doctors to determine if you're a healthy weight for your height.