Prediabetes Affects
1 out of 3 American Adults
Prediabetes: Know the Facts
Most people who develop type 2 diabetes, first have prediabetes. You may have no symptoms if your doctor diagnoses you with prediabetes, but it’s something to take very seriously. Prediabetes puts you at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and the health consequences of type 2 diabetes are many. But a prediabetes diagnosis doesn’t have to mean you’ll develop type 2 diabetes, not if you have the right education to lose weight and implement lasting lifestyle changes. To reduce your risk of developing diabetes, consider a Diabetes Prevention Program approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), such as the one from EHCS sister company, GemCare Wellness. Currently we are holding virtual Diabetes Prevention Programs so you can attend from the comfort of your own home. These programs are sponsored by the Ohio Department of Health and free for Ohio residents. Click below to learn more!
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
Losing Weight
Moderate weight loss (losing 5 to 7 % of body weight) can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. Manage your weight by:
- Reducing portion sizes
- Drinking calorie-free beverages instead of soda, fruit juices, ect.
- Choosing low calorie salad dressing or using small servings of regular dressing
Exercising
Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate to intense physical activity, 5 days each week to promote weight loss and improve blood sugar levels. If you can’t fit 30 minutes in at a time, try breaking your exercise into smaller sessions during the day.
Eating Healthier
Aim to eat a variety of foods that are low in fat (saturated and trans fat) and high in fiber. Focus on foods such as:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Whole grains
Controlling Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
When you have prediabetes, you are at higher risk for heart disease and stroke. High cholesterol also increases your risk for Type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it’s important to keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels low.
