Prediabetes is a serious health condition that puts you at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes affects more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults—that’s 88 million people—but most people don’t know they have it. The good news is that by making healthy lifestyle changes, it is possible to manage or reverse prediabetes and prevent it from turning into type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
If you have type 1 diabetes, your body does not make insulin. Your immune system attacks and destroys the cells in your pancreas that make insulin. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, although it can appear at any age. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to stay alive.
Type 2 Diabetes
If you have type 2 diabetes, your body does not make or use insulin well. You can develop type 2 diabetes at any age, even during childhood. However, this type of diabetes occurs most often in middle-aged and older people. Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes.
How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Start with small changes to your lifestyle. Take small steps. Making changes to your lifestyle and daily habits can be hard, but you don’t have to change everything at once.
- Move more - Limit time spent sitting and try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity 5 days a week. Start slowly by breaking it up throughout the day.
- Consume healthier foods and drinks most of the time - Pick foods that are high in fiber and low in fat and sugar. Build a plate that includes a balance of vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates. Drink water instead of sweetened drinks.
- Lose weight, track it and keep it off - You may be able to prevent or delay diabetes by losing 5 to 7 percent of your starting weight.
- Seek health support from your doctor - People are more successful at managing their prediabetes if they have regular contact and support from trusted health care professionals.
- Stay up to date on vaccinations - The COVID-19 and flu vaccines are important for people who may be more likely to get very sick from COVID-19 or the flu, such as people with diabetes.
Diabetes is a chronic disease where the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin, if any at all. It also leads to serious health conditions and, in many ways, can be preventable. Type II diabetes can be limited through a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a normal weight. That's why we help spread awareness.
Are you worried that you might have prediabetes? Schedule an appointment today with the Medical Specialty Center in Gridley (530) 846-9080 or Oroville (530) 353-3332 and talk to the doctor to see if additional testing is needed.
Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
