What is prediabetes and how to prevent it?

What is Prediabetes?

In simple terms, prediabetes involves a person having a high blood sugar level but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It’s important to note that people with type 2 diabetes generally have had prediabetes previously.

It’s essentially a stepping stone to diabetes, with prediabetic people at a bigger risk of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Also, prediabetes elevates the risk of developing other health issues as well such as those pertaining to the heart, eyes, kidneys, etc.

Nevertheless, people with prediabetes can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes by making changes in their lifestyle, including their daily diet and exercise.

What are the symptoms of Prediabetes?

Most people with prediabetes aren’t aware of it as it usually doesn’t showcase any symptoms. Prediabetes can only be diagnosed by getting a blood sugar test done.

However, there are some signs which can indicate the onset of prediabetes. If you experience these signs, then it’s best to get your blood sugar levels tested. The signs include:

• Experiencing more thirstiness than normal
• Significantly more tiredness than usual
• Peeing a lot more
• Blurry vision

Causes & Risk Factors of Prediabetes

People with the following characteristics or conditions are at a higher risk of prediabetes:

• Age more than 45 years
• Are obese or overweight, waist size more than 40 inches in men & 35 inches in women
• Have heart disease
• Have high cholesterol, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol & high LDL cholesterol
• Show insulin resistance symptoms like darkened skin in some areas, issues in concentrating, higher levels of hunger or fatigue
• Have a sleep issue, or work in rotational shifts or night shifts
• Consume significant amounts of red & processed meat, drink sugary beverages, low consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, or olive oil
• Avoid exercise

How to prevent Prediabetes?

You can prevent prediabetes with significant lifestyle changes required regarding daily diet, exercise and weight loss.

Following a healthy diet, doing enough regular exercise and subsequently achieving weight loss helps manage blood sugar levels, prevent type 2 diabetes and potentially reverse prediabetes in the long run.

Few easy-to-follow instructions for treating prediabetes:

• Regular exercise: Whether it be hitting the gym, playing sports, swimming, jogging or simply walking, try to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes daily, 5 days of the week
• Eat a nutritious & balanced diet and achieve weight loss: A decrease of 5-10% in weight can have a substantial impact
• Stop smoking if you are a smoker
• Consult a doctor and take medication for lowering blood sugar levels

Conclusion

As the saying ‘Prevention is better than cure’ goes, it’s well-advised to start making lifestyle changes once you experience signs of prediabetes. Reversing prediabetes is very much possible by religiously following a healthy diet, regular exercise and related factors.

Thus, if you are experiencing any prediabetes symptoms, then get your blood sugar levels tested at your nearest Clinico Pathology Lab. We have NABL Accredited Pathology Labs located in Mulund, Bhandup, Thane & Airoli.

Book Your Appointment Now! Contact us 24×7 on 9504555555.