Individuals over the age of 50 may want to work harder to keep their weight stable, according to the findings of a new study.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, has found that gaining weight after the age of 50 increases the risk of developing of diabetes.

Researchers examined the relationship between measures of overall body fat, fat distribution, changes in these measures, and diabetes risk among 4,193 men and women 65 years of age and older.

After an average of 12.4 years of follow up, scientists found that participants who gained more than 20 pounds between the age of 50 years and study entry had an approximately three-fold greater risk of developing diabetes during follow-up, regardless of their BMI at 50 years of age.

"Results of this study affirm the importance of maintaining optimal weight during middle age for prevention of diabetes and, while requiring confirmation, suggest that weight control remains important in reducing diabetes risk among adults 65 years of age and older," the authors concluded.

Diabetes affects more than 23 million people in the U.S., according to the American Diabetes Association.

According to the Mayo Clinic, risk factors for developing diabetes include family history, being overweight, leading an inactive lifestyle, and high blood pressure.

Exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a healthy, balanced diet are among the best ways to prevent diabetes and control blood sugar levels naturally.