Prediabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by high levels of blood sugar due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating glucose in the body. Diabetes can have serious health implications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. Fortunately, prediabetes, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, can be detected and prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes.

Prediabetes is a condition in which the blood sugar or glucose level is higher than normal (blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL) but not yet high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (blood glucose levels above 126 mg/dL). Prediabetes is defined as “impaired glucose tolerance” and “impaired fasting glucose.” Both of these conditions indicate that the body is struggling to regulate glucose levels, but there are no outward symptoms. Prediabetes is often referred to as the “gray area” between normal blood sugar levels and diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 88 million Americans have prediabetes, but many are unaware of it. The risk factors for prediabetes are the same as those for type 2 diabetes, including being overweight, physically inactive, having a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and being over 45 years old. Ethnicity is also a factor, as African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans are at higher risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes.

If left untreated, prediabetes usually progresses to type 2 diabetes within 10 years or less. However, with early detection and lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity, prediabetes can be reversed, and the risk of developing diabetes can be reduced by as much as 58%. Lifestyle changes can also prevent or delay diabetes-related complications.

Therefore, it is essential to get tested for prediabetes if you are at risk or show any symptoms, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue. The most common test for prediabetes is the A1C blood test, which measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. An A1C level between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes, while an A1C level of 6.5% or above confirms a diabetes diagnosis. Other tests that may be performed include a fasting blood sugar test and an oral glucose tolerance test.

If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, following a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. Losing 5-7% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Eating a balanced diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation. Physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or strength training, can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.

Additionally, certain medications may be prescribed to lower blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes. Metformin is commonly used to treat prediabetes and has been proven effective in reducing the risk of developing diabetes by up to 31%.

In conclusion, prediabetes is a warning sign for diabetes and a call to action to adopt a healthier lifestyle. It is essential to be aware of your risk factors and to get tested regularly for prediabetes. Early detection and intervention can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and its complications. By making lifestyle changes, managing your weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity, you can improve your health and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Remember, prediabetes is reversible, and prevention is possible.