How dangerous is it to ignore borderline sugar that is prediabetes?
The first step to understanding how dangerous it is to ignore prediabetes is understanding what a prediabetes diagnosis means.
What is prediabetes?
It is a warning sign that the body's ability to process sugar (glucose) is not working properly. Prediabetes is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or obese, having a sedentary lifestyle, and eating an unhealthy diet.
Prediabetes is typically diagnosed using a blood test called the A1C test, which measures the average blood sugar levels over the past three months. A person is considered to have prediabetes if their A1C level is between 5.7 and 6.4 percent. People with prediabetes are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Your body may already show early signs and symptoms of diabetes therefore, it is important to address prediabetes through lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet and weight, and regular physical activity. It is also necessary to consult with a doctor for proper diagnosis and appropriate medication.
What happens if you ignore signs of prediabetes?
Ignoring borderline sugar levels, also known as prediabetes, can be dangerous as it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
If left untreated, prediabetes can progress to diabetes within 5-10 years. Additionally, prediabetes is often accompanied by metabolic disorders such as obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it is important to be aware of and address prediabetes through lifestyle changes, regular physical activity, and medication.
What measures can you take if you are detected with prediabetes?
If you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, there are several measures you can take to prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. These include:
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Losing weight: Losing even a small amount of weight (5-7% of your current weight) can lower your risk of developing diabetes.
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Eating a healthy diet: Nutrition is one of the most important aspects of the development of the human body. To maintain a healthy diet include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, and sodium can help you control your blood sugar levels.
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Increasing physical activity: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, for at least 150 minutes per week can help you lose weight and improve your insulin sensitivity.
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Quitting smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
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Medications: if you are prediabetic consult your doctor to prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. Depending on your health conditions doctors may prescribe medication such as Metformin to lower blood sugar levels if needed. However, do not self-medicate and visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and medication.
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Regular check-ups: It is important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood sugar levels and track your progress. Our expert doctors at the Diabetes wellness clinic at A.J hospital will ensure that all your diabetic-related ailments are treated and managed effectively.
It is important to remember that these measures are not only for people with prediabetes but also for healthy living and preventing chronic diseases.
Additionally, if you have any underlying conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, or obesity visit a doctor near you who may recommend specific treatment or management for those conditions as well.