Pre-Diabetes
Pre-diabetes is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be called diabetes. It's serious because damage to the heart and circulation can occur. People with pre-diabetes can prevent or delay getting type 2 diabetes by losing weight and becoming more physically active.
A fasting blood glucose test is most commonly used to detect pre-diabetes. The blood glucose is measured in the morning before eating and after fasting overnight. If the glucose level is not normal, the test is repeated. After being diagnosed with pre-diabetes, a person should be checked for diabetes every 1 to 2 years.
- If fasting blood glucose is: less than 100 mg/dl
It is: Normal - If fasting blood glucose is: 100 - 125 mg/dl
It is: Pre-diabetes - If fasting blood glucose is: 126 mg/dl or higher
It is: Diabetes
How is pre-diabetes treated?
In a major study, 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, along with losing 5-10% of body weight, prevented diabetes in more than half the people with pre-diabetes. Some medicines delayed diabetes, but weight loss and activity worked best!
A relatively small amount of weight loss (5-10% of your current weight) is needed. For example, a person who weighs 200 pounds needs to lose 10-20 pounds. Most people need help making lifestyle changes. In the studies that have been done, people with pre-diabetes received monthly counseling to guide them in changing their diet and activity.
Having pre-diabetes increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, so controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and not using tobacco are also important. By taking early action, some people with pre-diabetes have actually turned the clock back -- had their blood glucose levels return to the normal range. If you have pre-diabetes, you are at a fork in the road. One way leads to diabetes. The other way leads to better health. Which way do you want to go?
