How to manage prediabetes?

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Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, and if left untreated, it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

The specific markers for prediabetes include:

1. Fasting blood sugar level between 100-125 mg/dL (normal fasting blood sugar level is less than 100 mg/dL).

2. Hemoglobin A1C level between 5.7-6.4 % (normal hemoglobin A1C level is less than 5.7 %).

The risk factors associated with prediabetes include:

1. Being overweight or obese.

2. Lack of physical activity.

3. Unhealthy diet, especially a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.

4. Smoking or tobacco use.

5. Family history of diabetes or prediabetes.

6. Age (prediabetes is more common in individuals over the age of 45).

To reduce the risk of prediabetes, the following lifestyle modifications can be implemented:

1. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

2. Engage in regular physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week (30 minutes per day, five days per week).

3. Follow a healthy diet that is low in processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats and high in fiber, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

4. Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels (up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men).

5. Quit smoking or tobacco use if applicable.

When lifestyle changes do not help manage prediabetes, medications like metformin can be taken to reduce blood sugar levels and prevent further progression to type 2 diabetes. Metformin works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in the body. Other medications like alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and thiazolidinediones may also be prescribed by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and risk factors. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan for managing prediabetes and preventing its further progression to type 2 diabetes.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.