What Qualifies as Prediabetes

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 if lifestyle changes are not made.

What Are the Criteria for Prediabetes?

Prediabetes is diagnosed based on the following criteria:

A1C Level: Between 5.7% and 6.4%
Fasting Blood Sugar: Between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL

Why Is Prediabetes Important?

Prediabetes is a critical stage because:

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

What Should You Do If You Have Prediabetes?

Consult Your Doctor: They can confirm the diagnosis and provide guidance.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Adopt a healthy diet (focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables).
- Exercise regularly (aim for at least 150 minutes per week).
- Lose weight if overweight or obese.
Monitor Your Health: Regularly check your blood sugar levels and other health markers.
Medication: In some cases, your doctor may recommend medications like metformin to help manage blood sugar levels.