Diabetes is probably something you’ve heard of—it’s that chronic condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar. But have you come across the term prediabetes? It’s not as widely known. Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. In fact, in the U.S., over one-third of adults are estimated to have prediabetes, yet many are unaware of it.
When blood sugar stays elevated for a prolonged period, it can lead to insulin resistance. Insulin helps move glucose into muscle and fat cells for energy use or storage. If insulin doesn’t work effectively—or if there’s not enough of it—blood sugar can climb. This can eventually harm blood vessels and arteries, which is pretty alarming because prediabetes significantly raises the chances of heart attacks and strokes.
So, what can you do to tackle prediabetes? There are strategies available, including the use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.
What are the symptoms of prediabetes?
Common diabetes symptoms include going to the bathroom frequently, feeling overly thirsty or hungry, excessive tiredness, blurred vision, and wounds that heal slowly. Interestingly, many people with prediabetes show no symptoms at all, which is why testing is essential.
How is prediabetes diagnosed?
If you’re due for your annual checkup, you might want to ask your doctor about getting a hemoglobin A1C test. This test provides an overview of your average blood sugar over the last three months. Prediabetes is indicated by an A1C of 5.7% to 6.4%, while a result of 6.5% or higher confirms diabetes.
Typically, prediabetes takes years to develop into diabetes, but the timeline can differ by age. So, adults over 70 may often remain in the prediabetic range or even return to normal levels instead of progressing to type 2 diabetes.
Why are prediabetes rates increasing?
The rising rates of prediabetes involve both genetic and environmental factors. While there’s little we can do about our genetic predisposition, we can manage our environment—think about your food choices and how much exercise you get.
Weight gain has emerged as a significant risk factor. Over the last few decades, obesity has skyrocketed, resulting in increased insulin resistance, which can lead to prediabetes and eventually diabetes. This trend is particularly worrying for younger adults and teens, as early diagnoses could mean a longer exposure period to diabetes-related health issues.
Can prediabetes be improved through diet?
The encouraging news is that prediabetes can often be reversed or its progression to diabetes can be prevented. A considerable study suggested that those with prediabetes who engaged in intensive lifestyle changes—including nutritionist support—saw a reduction in diabetes risk by over 60%.
One crucial step involves cutting back on simple carbohydrates that spike blood sugar, like sugary drinks and refined foods. Diets that lean towards plant-based options, such as the Mediterranean diet, show promise. Yet, what matters most is finding a sustainable eating pattern, rather than hopping on short-lived fad diets.
How does exercise help with prediabetes?
Incorporating cardio and strength training into your routine can boost blood sugar control, improve heart health, and even enhance mental well-being. There’s no need for a gym membership—simple resistance workouts can be done at home using items like water bottles.
How can GLP-1 drugs help prediabetes?
Many who consult obesity specialists may have tried various diets without success, leading to regain weight. This doesn’t stem from a lack of willpower. When weight is lost, the body reacts by heightening hunger, making it hard to maintain that weight loss. GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) can help by setting a lower weight “set point,” and they increase feelings of fullness, which can reduce appetite and promote weight loss.
What do I need to know before starting GLP-1 treatment?
Before beginning any GLP-1 treatments, it’s important to get evaluated by your healthcare provider for vital signs, cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver health.
Your provider will work with you to find the best treatment plan. While GLP-1 medications are an option, bariatric surgery often remains the most effective for obesity. If a GLP-1 drug is suggested, ensure you obtain it directly from the manufacturer, as compounded versions may lack proper quality checks and could pose risks.
GLP-1 drugs have been available for over two decades, but they’re just scratching the surface of emerging treatments for diabetes and obesity. That’s an exciting thought, and there’s support available to help navigate these advances.
