Posted on by admin

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Approximately 96 million American adults, or about 1 in 3, have prediabetes. Of those with prediabetes, more than 80% don’t know they have it.

What causes prediabetes?

The exact cause of prediabetes is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Some of the lifestyle factors that can increase your risk of developing prediabetes include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Having a family history of diabetes
  • Being physically inactive
  • Having high blood pressure
  • Having high cholesterol or triglycerides
  • Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What are the symptoms of prediabetes?

Most people with prediabetes don’t have any symptoms. However, some people may experience symptoms such as:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores

How is prediabetes diagnosed?

There are two main tests that can be used to diagnose prediabetes:

  • Fasting blood sugar test: This test measures your blood sugar level after you have fasted for at least eight hours. A fasting blood sugar level of 100 to 125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
  • Oral glucose tolerance test: This test measures your blood sugar level after you have fasted for at least eight hours and then drank a sugary liquid. A blood sugar level of 140 to 199 mg/dL two hours after drinking the sugary liquid indicates prediabetes.

What are the risks of prediabetes?

If you have prediabetes, you are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing these complications.

How can I prevent or delay type 2 diabetes?

If you have prediabetes, there are a number of things you can do to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Losing weight
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Being physically active
  • Taking medication, if necessary

What are the treatment options for prediabetes?

The treatment for prediabetes depends on your individual risk factors and goals. For some people, lifestyle changes may be enough to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. For others, medication may be necessary.

Lifestyle changes: The most important lifestyle changes for preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes are losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and being physically active.

  • Losing weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can help improve your blood sugar control. Aim to lose 5 to 7% of your body weight.
  • Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet for people with prediabetes includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
  • Being physically active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week.

Medication: If lifestyle changes are not enough to control your blood sugar levels, your doctor may prescribe medication. There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat prediabetes, including metformin, glipizide, and pioglitazone.

Can prediabetes be reversed?

Prediabetes can be reversed, but it takes time and effort. By making lifestyle changes and taking medication, you can lower your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Conclusion

Prediabetes is a serious health condition, but it is not a death sentence. By making lifestyle changes and taking medication, you can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and live a long and healthy life.

Additional resources

<