Pre-diabetes: More Than Just a Warning Sign

Pre-diabetes: More than Just a Warning Sign

If you've been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, it's time to start taking your health even more seriously. And, the diagnosis isn't exactly an indication that you're doomed to have future health problems. Your condition can improve, but there are some steps you'll have to take in order to get your blood sugar regulated. Read on to find out more.

There are two main tests that doctors use to determine if you have pre-diabetes; your fasting glucose and your blood glucose are both tested, and if your fasting glucose, which should be collected 8 to 10 hours after a fast for a more accurate reading, is 100-125 mg/dl, you will be diagnosed with pre-diabetes. If your blood glucose is taken, it will most likely be a couple of hours after the doctor has given you something sweet to drink, and if the reading is 140-199 mg/dl, it's time to start changing some of your lifestyle habits so that you can reverse the effects of pre-diabetes as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that pre-diabetes is the stage right before type 2 diabetes, so if you can get your blood sugar to a normal level before the diabetes is full-blown, you can rid yourself of the disease completely. But, once you have type 2 diabetes, you will have it for the rest of your life, so these tips can help you to keep your health intact:

-Your doctor will most likely recommend that you lose 10-15 pounds in order to regulate the glucose levels in your body. When you have extra weight on the body, it takes your system longer to digest food, and processing the sugars in foods takes more work.

-You should also fill your diet with lots of whole grains, along with fresh fruits and vegetables. Low-fat foods and foods that are naturally low in calories are also a great way to start and end your day.

-Stay active. You should exercise a miminum of 3 days a week for 30 minutes each day, but try to do more if you can. The activity will get your blood pumping, and help the body process foods quicker.

For more great tips and health information, visit www.diabetes.org.