What Are the Signs of Being Prediabetic?

What Is 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.

Common Signs of Prediabetes

Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, but some signs and risk factors include:

• Increased Thirst and Urination: Feeling unusually thirsty or needing to urinate more often.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy even after adequate rest.
• Blurred Vision: Experiencing occasional blurry vision.
• Darkened Skin Patches: Areas of skin, especially around the neck, armpits, or elbows, may darken (a condition called acanthosis nigricans).
• Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
• Slow Healing: Cuts or bruises that take longer to heal than usual.

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

Certain factors increase your risk of developing prediabetes:

• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
• Age: Being over 45 years old.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese.
• Physical Inactivity: Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
• Unhealthy Diet: Consuming a diet high in sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods.
• High Blood Pressure: Having elevated blood pressure levels.
• Gestational Diabetes: Having had diabetes during pregnancy or giving birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.

What Should You Do?

If you suspect you may have prediabetes, take these steps:

• Get Tested: Visit your doctor for a blood sugar test (A1C, fasting glucose, or oral glucose tolerance test).
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Adopt a healthy diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
  • Exercise regularly (aim for at least 30 minutes most days of the week).
  • Lose weight if overweight or obese.
• Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and other health metrics.
• Consult Your Doctor: Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

Can Prediabetes Be Reversed?

Yes! With lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss, prediabetes can often be reversed, reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.