Stop diabetes before it starts

Prediabetes can be reversed.

That’s good news for the millions of Americans with the condition. But reversing it and preventing a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes and lowering risks for other conditions isn’t easy.

Getting needed screenings and acting on the results with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise is key because prediabetes is also a key risk factor for other health and metabolic conditions, including heart attack and stroke. A diagnosis of prediabetes doubles the risk for a heart attack, which is becoming more prevalent among younger patients.

Type 2 diabetes is a progressive genetic disease in which the body does not produce the insulin necessary to metabolize sugar. The chance of developing Type 2 diabetes when diagnosed with prediabetes is about one in three.

An estimated 35% of the U.S. adult population is prediabetic, and 75% of the population is overweight or obese, which are risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and related conditions. As much as 20% of children are prediabetic.

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1, which is an autoimmune condition usually diagnosed in childhood, and Type 2, which is primarily related to lifestyle factors and is more common in adults.

Preventing Diabetes

Lifestyle practices that can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes include:

• Eating a well-balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. This is essential to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Engaging in regular exercise, which helps maintain a healthy weight and also improves insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
• Maintaining a healthy weight. Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
• Reducing the consumption of sugary beverages, sweets, and highly processed foods, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent insulin resistance.
• For those people at risk of developing diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels can provide valuable insights into their health and help catch any irregularities early on.
• Proper hydration, which is crucial for overall health, including maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
• Getting quality sleep. Poor sleep patterns can disrupt the body's ability to regulate blood sugar. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
• Engaging in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress can impact blood sugar levels.
• Limiting alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels.
• Getting regular health check-ups, which can help identify potential risk factors and allow for early intervention.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to consult a health care professional if you experience any of the following symptoms:

1. Frequent urination
2. Excessive thirst or hunger
3. Unexplained weight loss
4. Fatigue or weakness
5. Blurred vision
6. Slow-healing wounds or frequent infections

People with a family history of diabetes, are overweight or have other risk factors should have regular check-ups to monitor their blood sugar levels.