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I Was Diagnosed with Prediabetes, Now What? A Guide to Taking Control of Your Health.
Being diagnosed with prediabetes can be scary, but it’s also an opportunity to make positive changes in your health. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing your stress, and seeking medical care, you can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other complications.
I Was Diagnosed with Prediabetes, Now What? A Guide to Taking Control of Your Health.
Being diagnosed with prediabetes can feel like a scary and overwhelming experience. However, it's important to remember that prediabetes is a warning sign and an opportunity to make changes to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. In this post, we'll explore what prediabetes is, the risk factors, and some steps you can take to prevent or manage it.
Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. People with prediabetes have higher risks of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The good news is that prediabetes can be reversible with the right lifestyle changes.
So, what are the risk factors for prediabetes? Some known risk factors include age, family history of diabetes, being overweight or obese, sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and a history of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy). If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to get tested for prediabetes regularly.
The first step to managing prediabetes is to make lifestyle changes. The goal is to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. This includes adopting a healthy eating plan, increasing physical activity, and losing weight if you are overweight or obese. The American Diabetes Association recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
When it comes to eating, it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods that are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates. Instead, eat plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocado. If you need help creating a healthy eating plan, consider consulting a registered dietitian.
Another important aspect of managing prediabetes is stress management. Chronic stress can raise blood sugar levels and increase insulin resistance. Incorporating stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can be helpful in improving blood sugar control.
In addition to lifestyle changes, your healthcare provider may recommend medication to manage your blood sugar levels or prevent further complications. Medications like metformin can be effective in delaying or preventing the onset of diabetes in people with prediabetes. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best option for you.
Being diagnosed with prediabetes can be scary, but it’s also an opportunity to make positive changes in your health. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing your stress, and seeking medical care, you can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other complications. If you and your healthcare provider do decide to try a medication like metformin, use BaxRx to find the most affordable price on your medications. Don't wait until it's too late, take action today to take control of your health! Remember, small changes can make a big impact over time.
