Prediabetes is a widespread medical condition affecting a substantial percentage of the adult population worldwide. It is a borderline diabetes condition with frequent high blood sugar levels in the body.
Fluctuations in the diet can worsen the condition. Eating healthy during the weekdays and binging on sweets on the weekend can increase the risk of acquiring diabetes type 2.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, excessive sugary beverages, and lack of exercise are the major risk factors that may lead to prediabetes. Almost 25% of the young adults acquire prediabetes before turning 35.
In this article, you will go through the vital care measures, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications required to effectively manage the symptoms of prediabetes.
Possible Risk Factors Leading To Prediabetes
There isn’t any specified cause of prediabetes. However, a growing body of medical experts agrees that genetics and family history play an important part in the development of prediabetes.
Here is a list of the most commonly reported risk factors leading to prediabetes.
- Obesity and calorie-rich diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Age above 45
- High blood pressure
- Low levels of HDL or good cholesterol
- Race and family history
How Can You Know If You Have Prediabetes?
Individuals belonging to the older age group are more vulnerable to prediabetes. However, if you feel tired or thirsty more often than usual, you may be at the risk of developing prediabetes. Feeling the urge to urinate frequently and blurry vision are also common signs of prediabetes.
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, you should check in with your doctor and take tests to determine the severity of your insulin resistance.
What Should You Do If You Are Diagnosed With Prediabetes?
Early diagnosis and preventive measures can help you reverse your condition and save you from severe health complications. Healthy food choices, regular physical exercise, smoking cessation, and moderate lifestyle changes can significantly enhance the recovery process. So, you should seek the counsel of your doctor regularly and stick to your diet plan.
How Can Oxyjon Help If You Have Prediabetes?
At Oxyjon, we carefully analyze your condition to prepare individualized healthcare plans accordingly. Our specialized healthcare professionals focus on preventing slightly impaired glucose tolerance from progressing into chronic diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
● What are the common symptoms of prediabetes?
Frequent urination, muscle fatigue, blurry vision, and increased thirst are the frequently observed symptoms of prediabetes. If you notice any of these things, you should contact your doctor right away.
● What should you eat if you are prediabetic?
Consulting a dietician and having a proper meal plan is imperative for reversing prediabetes. You should avoid eating white rice, red meat, and starch-rich foods. Moreover, you should add green salads to your meals as they are highly beneficial for people with prediabetes.
● Which tests are used for the diagnosis of prediabetes?
Doctors rely on three tests to determine whether a person has diabetes or prediabetes. These include glycated hemoglobin A1c test (HbA1c), oral glucose tolerance test, and fasting plasma glucose test.
● What is the HbA1c range for prediabetic patients?
The normal percentage of HbA1c for healthy individuals is considered to be lower than 5.7%. However, individuals with A1c levels ranging from 5.7% to 6.4% are prediabetic and require proper medical care.
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prediabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355284
- https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/what-is-prediabetes
Written by: Dr. Ubaid
