Written by Fatima Khalil Saturday, August 05, 2023 12:00 AM
Prediabetes is a condition that means your blood glucose levels are high, but not so high that you could be diagnosed with diabetes. Prediabetes is usually the result of chronic insulin resistance, with fasting blood glucose levels between 100-125 mg/dl. , according to the diabetes website
Who are most at risk of prediabetes?
While anyone can develop prediabetes, there are several factors that increase the risk of developing the condition.
Ask your doctor for a glucose test, if you have any of the following risk factors and feel you may develop prediabetes:
Have an immediate relative with type 2 diabetes (sibling or parent)
You are 45 years of age or older
You suffer from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
You have Cushing’s syndrome
You suffer from sleep apnea
You previously had gestational diabetes during pregnancy
If you are taking steroids for a health condition, or if you are taking certain antipsychotic or HIV medicines
In addition, you are able to control the following risk factors, and are able to modify them to reduce your risk of prediabetes
You are overweight or obese
You are eating a poor diet, full of saturated fats and added sugars
You lead a sedentary lifestyle and do not exercise regularly
You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, which are not well controlled
You suffer from metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and a large waist measurement
You smoke cigarettes
Is it possible to prevent prediabetes turning into diabetes?
Yes! Before prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes, it is completely reversible.
Some additional lifestyle changes that can reverse prediabetes include:
Replace sugar-sweetened drinks with water
Cut out processed carbohydrates and foods with added sugar
Eat a low-carb diet, with plenty of fruits and vegetables
Reduce your overall caloric intake
Increase protein intake at all meals
Enlist the help of a dietitian to better adjust your diet and get healthy meal ideas
Get enough sleep (between 7-9 hours for most people)
Take all medications as prescribed
Test your blood sugar frequently with a home glucose meter
managing any other health conditions you have, including high blood pressure or high cholesterol)
If you smoke cigarettes, quit
Control your stress levels with deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or journaling
Seek support from family, friends or a support group
Maintain a healthy weight, and lose any excess weight
2023-08-04 21:00:00
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