Health Matters: Beat Pre-Diabetes
- iIrish Admin
- November 6, 2024
- Edited 2 months ago
Table of Contents
Health Matters: Beat Prediabetes: Essential Tips and Early Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore
By Dr. Anant Jeet
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), more than one in three U.S. adults have prediabetes, a serious health condition affecting 96 million people. Alarmingly, many are unaware of their condition.
The silver lining is that prediabetes can often be reversed. It is crucial for adults to understand prediabetes, identify its risk factors, adopt preventive measures, and recognize early signs of diabetes to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Understanding 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 critical warning sign indicating that a person is at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke if no preventive measures are taken. Since prediabetes typically has no obvious symptoms, about 80% of those with the condition are unaware, making it easy for people to remain undiagnosed for years.
Risk Factors for Prediabetes
While many people are unaware of their prediabetes, you can learn the risk factors. The main ones include being overweight and physically inactive, both of which are linked to insulin resistance. Other risk factors include:
- Being over the age of 45
- Having a family history of prediabetes or diabetes
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Smoking
- Sleep apnea
- Gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy)
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
If you have any of these risk factors, it is crucial to have regular check-ups with your doctor to screen for prediabetes. Early detection can significantly reduce the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes and other serious conditions.
Preventing Prediabetes
If you are diagnosed with prediabetes, know that the condition can often be reversed with lifestyle changes. Healthy eating, physical activity, and weight loss are the primary methods for managing and preventing prediabetes.
- Healthy Eating: A balanced diet is essential. Focus on lean proteins, healthy carbohydrates, and foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Reducing the intake of sugary and processed foods can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise is crucial for preventing and managing prediabetes. Strive for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can include activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Weight Loss: If you are overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels. Aim for gradual weight loss through a combination of diet and exercise.
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help reduce the risk of developing diabetes. However, lifestyle changes remain the cornerstone of prevention
Recognizing the Signs of Undiagnosed Diabetes
While prediabetes often has no symptoms, undiagnosed diabetes can manifest through several signs. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Early detection and management of diabetes can prevent serious complications and improve quality of life. Regular screenings and being aware of the risk factors and symptoms can help catch diabetes early.
Prediabetes is a prevalent but often overlooked condition that can lead to severe health issues if left unmanaged. Understanding the risk factors, making lifestyle changes, and recognizing the signs of undiagnosed diabetes are critical steps in preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes. Regular check-ups and a proactive approach to health can make a significant difference in managing blood sugar levels and maintaining overall well-being.
To read more Health Matters Columns, Click: HERE
Merry Christmas From the Ancient Order of Hibernians
December 25, 2024
No Comments
“The Labour Party made a manifesto commitment to ‘repeal and replace’ the Legacy Act ‘by returning to the principles of the Stormont House Agreement’, this announcement falls far short of that.
American Irish State Legislators Caucus US Ambassador to Ireland
December 23, 2024
No Comments
US Names Ambassador to US. 250th anniversary of the beginning of the American War of Independence will be celebrated throughout 2025. Draft wording for Resolutions for the American Irish State Legislators Caucus have been sent to each State Chair which outlines the actions of some of those who were born in Ireland or who have Irish heritage who participated in the siege of Boston, Bunker Hill and the 1st defeat of the British Navy by the new US Navy.
*Anant Jeet, MD, is an endocrinologist who treats patients at Mercy Health – Lorain Endocrinology, Mercy Health – Lorain Endocrinology and Mercy Health – Lorain Endocrinology. He is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine (Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism).
Share this article with a friend
