Prediabetes is a serious health condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes, and nearly 96 million American adults — more than 1 in 3 — have prediabetes. More than 80% of people with prediabetes do not know they have it, according to the website WebMD
What causes prediabetes?
Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that acts as a key to allow blood sugar to enter the cells to be used as energy. Blood sugar rises, paving the way for pre-diabetes — and type 2 diabetes on the way.
Signs and symptoms
You can have prediabetes for years but don’t have obvious symptoms, so it often goes undetected until serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes develop. It’s important to talk to your doctor regarding getting a blood sugar test if you have any of the risk factors. for prediabetes,
Prevent type 2 diabetes
If you have prediabetes, losing a small amount of weight if you are overweight and getting regular physical activity can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as getting regular physical activity such as getting at least 150 minutes per week of exercise. brisk walking or similar activity.
