Pre-diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes if not treated. However, there are things you can do to reverse pre-diabetes and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is a serious condition because it can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
What are the symptoms of prediabetes?
There are no symptoms of prediabetes. The only way to know if you have prediabetes is to get tested.
Who is at risk for prediabetes?
You are at risk for prediabetes if:
You are overweight or obese
You have a family history of type 2 diabetes
You are over the age of 45
You have a history of gestational diabetes
You have high blood pressure
You have low HDL (good) cholesterol or high LDL (bad) cholesterol
How is prediabetes diagnosed?
Prediabetes is diagnosed with a blood test. The test measures your blood sugar level after you have not eaten for at least 8 hours. A blood sugar level of 100-125 mg/dL is considered prediabetes.
How can I reverse prediabetes?
There are things you can do to reverse prediabetes and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These include:
Losing weight. Even losing a small amount of weight can help to improve your blood sugar levels.
Eating a healthy diet. A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Getting regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Quitting smoking. Smoking can worsen prediabetes and increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
What are the benefits of reversing prediabetes?
Reversing prediabetes can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It can also improve your overall health and quality of life.
If you have prediabetes, it is important to talk to your doctor about how to reverse it. Your doctor can help you develop a plan that includes lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication.
Here are some additional tips for reversing prediabetes:
Make gradual changes to your diet and exercise habits. Don’t try to change everything at once.
Set realistic goals. Don’t try to lose too much weight too quickly.
Find a support system. Talk to your friends, family, or a support group about your prediabetes.
Be patient. It takes time to reverse prediabetes. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
Reversing pre-diabetes is a challenge, but it is possible. With the right lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication, you can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improve your overall health.
Here’ to your health,
Terrance Hutchinson
Certified Health and Wellness Coach &Consultant
Www.Yourbestlifestyles.com/podcast
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