Prediabetes Affects
1 out of 3 American Adults
Prediabetes: Know the Facts
Most people who develop Type 2 diabetes, first have Prediabetes. There are no clear symptoms of prediabetes, but it does put you at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. It is important to note that just because you have prediabetes, you will not necessarily develop Type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends that those with Prediabetes, or at high risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, follow some of the below steps to reduce the onsite of Type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes Testing
Not all tests are recommended for diagnosing the type of diabetes you may have. Any test used to diagnose diabetes requires confirmation with a second measurement.
- Glycated Hemoglobin Test (A1C)
- Fasting Blood Sugar Test
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
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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.
