What Does It Mean When You're Pre-Diabetic?

Understanding Pre-Diabetes

Being pre-diabetic means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. It’s a warning sign that you’re at risk of developing type 2 diabetes if you don’t make lifestyle changes.

What Are the Numbers?

Pre-diabetes is typically diagnosed when:

• Your A1C level is between 5.7% and 6.4%.
• Your fasting blood sugar is between 100 and 125 mg/dL.
• Your oral glucose tolerance test result is between 140 and 199 mg/dL.

Is Pre-Diabetes Serious?

Yes, pre-diabetes is a serious condition because:

• It increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• It raises your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• It can lead to other health complications if left unmanaged.

What Should You Do?

• Consult Your Doctor: They can confirm your diagnosis and recommend next steps.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
  • Exercise regularly (aim for at least 150 minutes per week).
  • Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.
• Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your blood sugar levels and other health metrics.
• Medication (if needed): In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage your blood sugar levels.

Can You Reverse Pre-Diabetes?

Yes! With healthy lifestyle changes, many people can return their blood sugar levels to normal and prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes.