What Does Prediabetes Mean and How to Control It?

What does prediabetes mean? Can you reverse it? What can you do to control it? Learn all the tips to help you have a normal life.

The diagnosis of prediabetes can be alarming; However, there are a number of recommendations that contribute to improving the lifestyle to facilitate its control. What does predeabetes mean? Do you have this problem? Learn the symptoms and tips to control it!

What does predeabetes mean?

Receiving a diagnosis of prediabetes indicates that blood sugar levels are above normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. How can you control prediabetes?

This condition usually has its origin in insulin resistance, a problem that is characterized by the inability of the body to use insulin properly. In most cases it appears before type 2 diabetes and can be reversible.

Therefore, after detecting it, it is essential to set up a regular glucose level plan and improve the quality of life in general. Also, the treatment prescribed by the doctor should be maintained until he considers it pertinent. Does this condition afflict you?

Tips to control prediabetes

For an accurate diagnosis of prediabetes, the doctor should do a blood test. Rapid glucose tests, such as finger puncture, do not help detect this disease. Instead, tests such as the hemoglobin A1c test and the fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) are done.

However, the treatment to control prediabetes can vary in each person, according to their needs. This same plays a key role in the prevention of type 2 diabetes, since prediabetes is usually the precursor of this disease. What should you keep in mind?

1. Increase fiber consumption

Fiber must represent an important part of the diet to prevent metabolic diseases.

Fiber-rich foods play an important role in controlling prediabetes. Fiber helps prolong the feeling of fullness, improves bowel movements and prevents high blood sugar spikes. As if that were not enough, your intake helps you have more energy throughout the day.

Some of the healthiest sources are:

  • Fruits and vegetables with edible skins
  • Vegetables
  • Wholegrain breads and cereals
  • Cereals like quinoa
  • Nuts and seeds

2. Limit sugar consumption

For obvious reasons, the plan to deal with prediabetes should include the elimination of all sources of refined sugars in the diet. The sources of this substance hinder the activity of the metabolism and have a considerable impact on the uncontrolled glucose and the development of diabetes.

Thus, it is essential to avoid sugar, breakfast cereals, soft drinks and any other food that contains it in large quantities. Currently there are healthy alternatives to sweeten meals without exposing health. If you can’t live without the candy, ask for these options.

3. Increase water consumption

Increasing water consumption will help better functioning of the kidneys and digestive system.

Water plays a very important role in many aspects of health. After all, much of the body’s composition is water. In this particular case, water consumption is a good alternative to control prediabetes and keep glucose under control.

This beverage, which contains no calories, replaces sugary sodas, juices, energy drinks and many other products that only disguise thirst. In addition, it helps improve the functioning of the kidneys, which favors the expulsion of liquids and wastes through urine.

4. Lose weight

Although weight loss depends on many factors, it is important to make a special mention. People who are overweight and obese have a higher risk of developing diabetes and metabolic disorders. Therefore, if the weight is high, it is essential to take measures to reduce it.

Currently, there are many complementary therapies that help achieve these goals. In addition, combined with a good exercise and diet plan can favor the elimination of those extra kilos. As if that were not enough, losing at least 10% of the total weight improves cardiovascular and joint health.

5. Exercise

Regular physical exercise is one of the most effective ways to control prediabetes and prevent type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), sedentary lifestyle is associated with increased resistance to insulin.

This same entity recommends exercising at least 5 days a week, for 30 minutes. They should not necessarily be high intensity activities. In fact, walking, dancing or cycling are beneficial options.

Did you get a prediabetes diagnosis? Apply all these recommendations to reduce the risk of other complications. Of course, consult your trusted doctor regularly to constantly monitor blood glucose levels.

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