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We probably have all heard or know someone dealing with type II diabetes, but did you know that there is a condition that leads up to that diagnosis?
Prediabetes can be a warning that your blood glucose levels are elevated, which could put you at high risk for type II diabetes. However, don't think of it as just a warning.
High sugar levels increase your risk of damaging your organs, especially your heart, kidneys, and nerves. So, let's get to the information you need about prediabetes so you can make changes to head off type II diabetes.
Also known as hyperglycemia or impaired glucose tolerance is characterized by higher-than-normal blood glucose levels. However, this level is not high enough for type 2 diabetes. Nevertheless, it serves as a crucial warning sign, indicating a higher risk of developing full-blown diabetes in the future.
As the Mayo Clinic points out, prediabetes usually doesn't have obvious signs or symptoms. However, they state that one possible sign is darkened skin on specific body parts, such as the neck, armpits, and groin.
Symptoms that you may have progressing from prediabetes to type II diabetes as:
It is yet to be clarified why some people develop prediabetes while others don't. Body weight, diet, and physical activity may play a role, but there may be a genetic link. Some risk factors for it can include:
Diabetes is a disorder in which our bodies struggle with blood sugar or glucose. While type I and type II deal with how our bodies respond to sugar, there are many differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Since most diabetic patients develop type II diabetes, the indication can be a helpful tool to head it off. Complications of type II diabetes can include dangerous health conditions such as:
So, what's the best way to determine if you risk developing this disease?
Your doctor will perform blood tests to assess blood glucose levels. These tests include -
It tests a component of your blood called hemoglobin. It is a protein that binds with sugar, and when high blood cells with sugar are stuck to their hemoglobin, this can indicate -
This test measures how your body reacts to drinking a sugary liquid two hours after consuming it.
This test is usually administered in the morning since it measures your blood sugar when you haven't had food or drink for 8 hours.
Lifestyle changes can often prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. Here are some things you should do to keep diabetes at bay -
A diabetic diet includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods high in saturated and trans fats.
Go for low glycemic index foods. These are less likely to increase blood sugar levels.
Avoid overeating and maintain a healthy weight. Losing even a small amount (5-10% of body weight) reduces the risk of diabetes to a great extent.
Regularly exercise to help control blood sugar levels. Indulge in moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing, at least thrice a week. Additionally, incorporate strength training exercises at least two days a week.
Chronic stress can affect your blood sugar levels. Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation, yoga). Engage in hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones, or seek professional help, if need be.
If your doctor recommends it, check your blood sugar levels regularly to track any changes. Similarly, it can help you understand how your lifestyle choices and habits impact your blood sugar levels.
Smoking increases the chances of diabetes and other health complications. If you smoke, consider quitting. Seek support from healthcare professionals or support groups to help you quit.
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Stick to one or two drinks per day. Remember that alcohol contains calories and can affect blood sugar levels.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It's a healthier choice compared to sugary beverages, which can cause glucose spikes.
Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your prediabetes and overall health. They can provide guidance, monitor your progress, and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. You can monitor your blood glucose levels at home with glucometers.
Remember, these self-care tips are general recommendations. Working closely with your healthcare provider to develop a plan that suits your needs and medical history is essential.
Since there is no cure for type II diabetes, managing this disease means losing weight, eating well, and exercising. Still, if this cannot regulate your glucose levels, your doctor may prescribe diabetes medications or insulin injections.
Here are some relevant products for prediabetes management available at HPFY.
Glucometers are devices that measure blood sugar levels. They are essential for people with prediabetes and diabetes, as they can help track blood sugar levels and check if they are in the prescribed range. Test strips are used with glucometers to measure blood sugar levels.
High BP is a significant risk factor for prediabetes. Blood Pressure Monitors measure accurate blood pressure (BP) levels.
Weight loss improves blood sugar control and reduces chances of diabetes. Products for weight loss include diet pills and meal replacement shakes, to name a few.
Exercising also helps in blood sugar control. Exercise equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes are perfect for cardio workouts.
To manage diabetes properly, you first need to understand the condition. HPFY has various diabetes education materials, including books, websites, and apps.
Fortunately, if caught early enough, prediabetes can give you a warning before type II diabetes develops fully. You can reverse this health scare if you heed the warnings through lifestyle changes such as proper diet and exercise.
You can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) site for more information on prediabetes and the possibility of reversing your journey to type II diabetes.
Visit our site for everything you may need to help exercise and monitor your glucose levels to ensure that this warning stays just that - a warning!
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our reviewed content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
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