Prediabetes

Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not quite high enough to be called diabetes. Think of it as a wake-up call from your body. While it doesn’t mean you’ve developed diabetes, it does signal that you’re at risk. However, with lifestyle changes, you can often reverse it.

At its core, managing prediabetes is about empowering you to take control of your health. Whether it’s through nutrition, movement or support, the goal is to help you lead a happier and healthier life. You don’t have to go it alone — there are plenty of resources and tools to guide you every step of the way.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. If left unchecked, it can progress to diabetes, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke and other complications. Knowing what prediabetes is can help you catch it early and make changes to protect your health.

Here’s a quick rundown of key points:

• Who’s at risk? Anyone can develop prediabetes, but risk factors include being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle or having a family history of diabetes.
• How is it diagnosed? Simple blood tests, like fasting glucose or A1C levels, are used to determine if your blood sugar is in the prediabetic range.
• Can it be reversed? Almost always! With the right lifestyle changes, many people can lower their blood sugar levels and avoid diabetes altogether.

Prediabetes doesn’t mean something is “broken” inside you — it’s just your body’s way of saying it needs a little extra attention and care.

Causes and symptoms of prediabetes

Prediabetes can develop for several reasons, and it’s often linked to how your body processes sugar. Here are some of the main causes:

• Lifestyle factors: Lack of physical activity and unhealthy eating habits can lead to insulin resistance.
• Excess weight: Carrying extra weight, especially around your belly, increases the likelihood of developing prediabetes.
• Genetics: Family history plays a role, so if diabetes runs in your family, it’s smart to be proactive.
• Age: As we get older, our risk for prediabetes increases.

The silent nature of prediabetes means symptoms often go unnoticed, making screening vital. Experts suggest early testing for those at high risk, even in childhood. For others, starting at 35 and repeating every one to three years ensures timely detection and proactive health management.

Treatments for prediabetes

Managing prediabetes starts with lifestyle changes — and the best part is, small steps can lead to big results. Here’s how we can help you address prediabetes:

• Healthy eating: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Reduce sugary and processed foods.
• Get moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Walking, swimming or dancing are great options!
• Weight management: Even losing 5% to 7% of your body weight (10 pounds for an individual weighing 200 pounds) can be sufficient to delay or even prevent diabetes.

Sometimes, lifestyle changes might not be enough, and that’s okay. Medications can be used to help. Your doctor may recommend:

• Metformin: A medication that helps lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity
• GLP-1 RAs and related medications: These medications help people lose weight and lower blood sugar

Remember, every person is different — what works for one might not work for another. The goal is to find a plan that is right for you.

Managing prediabetes is easier when you have support, and we’re here to help. If you have questions or want to take the first step toward reversing prediabetes, reach out to us today. Your health matters — and you’re worth it!