Prediabetes: symptoms and how to reverse

Prediabetes is a pre-stage of type 2 diabetes, with blood sugar levels higher than normal but not yet high enough for the diagnosis of diabetes. It is a critical phase because the risk of diabetes and other health problems is increased. Here are the symptoms, causes and strategies to reverse prediabetes:

Symptoms of prediabetic disease

Prediabetes usually does not cause specific symptoms, but some possible signs may include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination.
• Fatigue, even after adequate sleep.
• Blurred vision.

Causes of prediabetes

Several factors contribute to the risk of prediabetic disease:

• Overweight or obesity, especially with a thicker abdomen.
• Age from 40-45 years.
• Hereditary predisposition, with diabetes in the family.
• High blood pressure.
• Unhealthy food with lots of fat and sugar, and little vegetables, fruit and fiber.
• Lack of exercise.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Previous episodes of increased blood glucose, such as during pregnancy diabetes.

Prediabetic diagnosis

Prediabetic disease is determined by:

• Fast glucose measurement: A blood test after 8 hours of fasting. A value between 100-125 mg/dl indicates prediabetic disease.
• HbA1c test: This measure the average blood sugar level over the last 2-3 months. A value above 6.5% may indicate diabetes.

Invert prediabetes

Prediabetes can often be reversed by lifestyle changes:

• Weight decrease: Even a 5% decrease in body weight can reduce the risk of diabetes by 30%.
• Healthy nutrition: Focus on a diet with lots of fiber, fruit and vegetables, and limit the intake of fat and sugars.
• Regular exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate intensive activity per week, such as walking or cycling, may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Stop smoking: Smoking increases not only the risk of diabetes, but also cardiovascular disease.

Medicinal treatment

In some cases, medication may be considered:

• Metformin: Decreases blood sugar by reducing liver glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.
• Sulphonylurea derivatives: Stimulate the pancreas to give more insulin.
• Insulin secretants: Helping to regulate blood glucose levels.

It is important to have regular health monitoring and action taken when prediabetes is diagnosed. Healthy lifestyle adjustments often prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. Always consult a tailor-made doctor for advice.