Our bodies are usually adept at regulating blood sugar levels, but disruptions can occur, leading to glycemic dysfunction and insulin resistance. Prediabetes indicates elevated blood sugar levels, posing health risks even without progressing to Type 2 diabetes. Diagnosis involves tests like fasting blood sugar, glycated hemoglobin (A1C), and glucose tolerance tests.
Maintaining blood sugar within normal limits is crucial. Risk factors for prediabetes include obesity, age over 45, cardiovascular issues, sedentary lifestyle, family history of diabetes, gestational diabetes, PCOS, and certain ethnicities. Taking the CDC's prediabetes risk test can assess your risk level.
If at risk, lifestyle changes are key. Exercise, particularly aerobic activities like brisk walking, and strength training improve metabolic health and insulin sensitivity. Dietary adjustments, such as reducing refined carbs and focusing on protein and healthy fats, contribute to better blood sugar control. Weight loss, even a modest amount, significantly reduces diabetes risk.
Studies show that lifestyle modifications positively impact metabolic markers like blood pressure, triglycerides, and fasting blood sugar in as little as six months. However, sustaining these changes is crucial for long-term benefits.
Regular diabetes screenings are recommended, with yearly checks advocated for all adults. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying proactive with screenings, individuals can manage prediabetes effectively and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
