Prediabetes
Prediabetes is the intermediate stage between healthy blood glucose levels and diabetes. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight loss induced by lifestyle intervention is the primary treatment and is very effective.
Prediabetes falls under theDiabetes & Blood Sugarcategory.
Last Updated:October 13, 2024
Prediabetes is a condition marked by elevated blood glucose levels that are not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes and is often associated with obesity, dyslipidemia, and high blood pressure.
There are usually no symptoms associated with prediabetes, but people with overweight or obesity and who have risk factors such as a family history of diabetes or high blood pressure should consider testing. Universal screening is recommended for adults ages 35 and older, and follow-up screenings are based on initial results and the presence of symptoms or additional risk factors.
Prediabetes is diagnosed through fasting blood glucose, 2-hour plasma glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), or HbA1c levels, and specific thresholds are set by the American Diabetes Association. The OGTT is considered the most sensitive test because relying solely on fasting glucose or HbA1c may lead to underdiagnosis.
The main medical treatments for prediabetes include lifestyle interventions such as weight loss, exercise, and healthy eating, and metformin is the first-line pharmacological option for people with certain criteria. Additionally, weight-loss medications like semaglutide may be used to improve the effectiveness of lifestyle changes.
A hypocaloric diet can effectively help people with prediabetes and obesity achieve significant weight loss, which is crucial for preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes. Customizing the diet to individual preferences — along with a focus on plant-based foods like whole grains, legumes, nuts, fruits, and vegetables — may further reduce diabetes risk.
Various supplements have been studied for their potential to improve glycemic control in people with prediabetes, including zinc, vitamin D, cinnamon, berberine, curcumin, probiotics, panax ginseng, vitamin K, omega-3 fatty acids, aloe vera, and mulberry leaf extract.
To treat prediabetes, engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, along with 2 resistance exercise sessions, is essential for improving insulin sensitivity. Additionally, breaking up sitting time and quitting tobacco are recommended strategies.
Prediabetes is caused by a combination of factors, including insulin resistance and reduced pancreatic beta-cell function, similar to type 2 diabetes but to a lesser degree. Key contributors include genetic predisposition, environmental factors, excess energy intake, and sedentary behavior, which lead to hyperglycemia.
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