Those of us who are at risk for diabetes may be diagnosed with “Pre-diabetes,” a condition doctors have started to look for in high risk patients. It’s estimated that just fewer than 80 million Americans suffer from this condition. Pre-diabetes does not mean that the patient does have diabetes but that there’s a very good chance he or she is may develop the condition in the future. By understanding exactly what pre-diabetes is individuals can understand how to fight the condition and then in turn, maintain the best possible health.
What is Pre-Diabetes?
Pre-diabetes is what is known as the condition that happens to a person before diabetes. At this point, the blood sugar levels are higher than what is considered normal (between 100 and 125 after fasting) but not high enough for the patient to be labeled diabetic. With type 2 diabetes, the body has developed a resistance to the effects of insulin, and the sugar in food isn’t properly broken down into glucose to provide the body with energy. The pancreas could also be unable to produce enough insulin to properly break down the glucose. With pre-diabetes, some of the sugar is still being converted but not all of it. Some doctors consider pre-diabetes the first step in a gradual journey to diabetes.
Symptoms
Many people don’t notice any effects at all when they’re suffering from pre-diabetes. Those that do will usually experience heartburn, occasional dizziness, blurred vision, slow healing wounds, and chronic fatigue. Some individuals will experience yeast infections and may be hungry all the time. In fact, those who suffer from pre-diabetes will often feel the need for something sweet directly after a meal, even if they’re already full. When the physician checks the blood sugar levels, they will be elevated, although not as high as those of someone with diabetes.
Diet
Through diet and exercise,those who are pre-diabetic may be able to stave off full blow diabetes. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods and those full of fat. Protein should come from lean meats, especially fish and seafood. Beans are also a great source of protein and a good choice for pre-diabetic meals. Individuals should choose whole grain foods over those made with bleached flour and should avoid starch vegetables and foods like potatoes and corn. Great choices include greens, carrots, broccoli, and green beans.
Another important aspect of a pre-diabetic diet is to learn portion control. Most people tend to eat more than they actually need, and with larger and larger portions being served just about everywhere, individuals have come to expect much larger meals than they should be eating. To remedy this, utilize the serving size suggestions and eat only until full rather than until the food is gone.
Treatment
The best treatment for this condition is a combination of a healthy diet, increased activity and exercise, and knowledge. The first step individuals who are diagnosed with pre-diabetes should take is to lose weight and ensure that they are as healthy as possible. Increasing cardio activities will help burn fat and increase the blood flow to the extremities of the body as well as strengthening the heart. This is very important, since pre-diabetics are at a higher risk for heart disease and other heart conditions. In some cases, pre-diabetics are prescribed diabetic medication to help lower their blood glucose levels.
Overall, being diagnosed as a pre-diabetic is a warning sign that individuals should take very seriously. It’s possible to back out of the warning zone with a properly focused regimen of exercise, wise food choices, and knowledge about taking care of the body in the right way.
Related Sites
Pre Diabetes
Gestational Diabetes - Indian Food Diet. What you need to know ...
Diabetes in dogs - Wikipedia the free encyclopedia
UK Body Recommends Lilly Amylin Diabetes Drug Bydureon - WSJ ...
Taming Diabetes - Diabetes - MSN Health
The Search for a Diabetes Cure
Pre Diabetes
Pre Diabetes
Pre Diabetes
Pre Diabetes
Related terms: Pre Diabetes Symptoms, Pre Diabetes Numbers, Pre Diabetes Diagnosis, Pre Diabetes Type 1, Pre Diabetes Weight Loss, Pre Diabetes Menu, Pre Diabetes Blood Sugar Levels, Pre Diabetic Diet
