What Are Prediabetes

Understanding Prediabetes

Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a warning sign that you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you do not make lifestyle changes.

Symptoms of Prediabetes

Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, but some people may experience:

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Fatigue
Blurred vision

Diagnosing Prediabetes

Prediabetes is diagnosed through blood tests, including:

A1C Test: A level between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test: A level between 100 and 125 mg/dL suggests prediabetes.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: A level between 140 and 199 mg/dL after 2 hours indicates prediabetes.

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

Several factors increase the risk of developing prediabetes, including:

Being overweight or obese
Physical inactivity
Family history of diabetes
Age (45 or older)
High blood pressure or cholesterol

How to Prevent Prediabetes from Progressing

You can take steps to prevent prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes:

Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Weight Loss: Losing 5-7% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk.
Regular Check-ups: Monitor your blood sugar levels and visit your doctor regularly.