As a Wellness Coach, I help support my clients through several health issues. While Nutritional Balancing and Digestive Health are my focus. When another topic comes up, I do what I can to assist and educate my clients. When a client came to me recently informing me of a Pre-Diabetes diagnosis, I helped to educate her on what the diagnosis meant for her and did some additional research following our call, what I found was alarming.
If you have been diagnosed with Pre-Diabetes, you’re not alone. It is estimated that 1 in 3 Americans have the condition and many aren’t even aware of it.
A 2018 Study showed that metabolic markers may occur 20 years before a diagnosis is made, and with more than 3 Million cases diagnosed annually in the US, awareness and early action is key.
So, what exactly is pre-diabetes?
Prediabetes, also known as impaired glucose tolerance or borderline diabetes, is not a type of diabetes, but rather warning sign that a problem is developing with glucose metabolism and insulin resistance and People diagnosed with prediabetes are likely to develop Type 2 diabetes within the next five years.
What are the symptoms?
Unfortunately, the only symptom of Prediabetes is High Blood Sugar, so awareness is key here.
How would you know if you have high blood sugar? There are some common symptoms to be aware of.
- Excessive Thirst
- Excessive Hunger
- Unexplained Weight loss
- Drowsiness
- Irritability
- Dizziness
- Frequent Urination
How is it Diagnosed?
Common tests & procedures:
Glycated hemoglobin test: Average blood sugar level, specifically attached to hemoglobin; if A1C is between 5.7 -6.4, considered as prediabetes.
Fasting blood sugar (FBS): Fasting blood glucose and blood glucose after consumption of sugar solution are measured.
So, what are the causes?
The exact causes for prediabetes are unclear but the following factors play a role:
· Family history
· Genetics
· Sedentary lifestyle
· Overweight/excess fat
· Diet: Eating processed meat and drinking sweetened beverages are associated with higher risk
· Race:
It is difficult to prevent prediabetes since the causes and symptoms are unclear: however, eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of prediabetes developing into diabetes type 2. So, acting now is important.
How is it Treated?:
While your doctor may prescribe medication, there are other things you can do to take part in your own health.
Self-care
· Eating healthy food, especially those low in fat and calories, and high in fiber
· Being more active, increasing physical activity of at least 30 minutes per day
· Stop smoking!
· Losing excess weight, even losing 5-10 percent can reduce risk of developing prediabetes into diabetes type 2.
The good news is that small changes can make a big difference in your life. If you've recently been diagnoses with Pre-Diabetes and need support making the changes your doctor recommended, reach out to me today at heidi@heidisharman.com. or visit www.heidisharman.com today. Let's get your healthy back!
DISCLAIMER:
This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
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