Pre-diabetes: A Diabetic’s Limbo

Once type 1 diabetes is diagnosed, there is no turning back. Its onset is rapid and once you have been diagnosed with it, it means that you’ll have it for a lifetime. Type 2 diabetes is a different case. People who are high-risk may be closely monitored and can be diagnosed with pre-diabetes. This is a condition wherein the blood glucose level is high but not high enough to be considered diabetic.

Pre-diabetes can be considered a reprieve. Once you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, you need to closely monitor your blood glucose level, stick to a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Following this health plan religiously will delay the onset of diabetes. The delay can be months, even years. Some people who have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes take this reprieve so seriously that they modify their lifestyle and become healthier than they were before being diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Some even avoid type 2 diabetes altogether.

As soon as you have been identified as pre-diabetic, your doctor will order an annual blood test to ensure that your blood glucose remains stable. Having a monitor at home is also helpful so you can report any changes to your doctor.

Some people who do not get regular check-up miss being diagnosed with pre-diabetes and are immediately diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It is important to catch the disease before its onset.

Here are some risk factors associated with pre-diabetes:

Obesity or being overweight

Sedentary lifestyle, having very little or no physical activity at all

Having gestational diabetes or diabetes during pregnancy

Being over the age of 45

Other family members are type 2 diabetics

The above risk factors will make a person more likely to be diagnosed with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. However, it doe not mean that it will happen. Knowing that you are at risk means that you can immediately take action. Consult your doctor if you think you may be diagnosed with diabetes. A doctor can provide more information on what to watch out for. He can also give you advice on the type of food to eat and what to avoid. A healthy eating plan prepared by a dietician and followed strictly will help you maintain a good weight and low blood glucose level. Include an exercise routine and you can avoid pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes altogether.

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