Prediabetes is a warning sign that tells an individual they are on the verge of diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, the standard blood sugar level in adults’ fasting state should stay less than 100 mg/dl. A reading between 100 mg/dl and 126 mg/dl indicates that the individual is pre-diabetic. These are warning levels. They tell you that you are on the verge of turning diabetic. The peak blood sugar levels for non-diabetics measured two hours after eating should not exceed 180 mg/dl.
Normally there are no external symptoms observed in individuals with prediabetes.
Diabetes is a lifestyle disease. A healthy lifestyle, physical activity, and dietary goals that reduce calorie intake can help improve diabetes risk.
Some vital recommendations for older adults with diabetes are moderate leisure-time activity and walking, higher intake of dietary fiber, and consumption of a low-fat diet especially trans fats, easily digestible carbohydrates, reducing smoking and reducing central obesity. (Mozaffarian et al., 2009).
These recommendations are also applicable to pre-diabetic conditions. However, if the underlying cause of a state is not just lifestyle – it could be hormonal, genetic, or any other reason, then these generic recommendations may not bring about results. It is, therefore, best to consult a diabetes physician before following any generic guidance.
Risk factors like overweight or obesity, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, enhanced cholesterol levels, smoking, and gene dysfunction can cause diabetes. Racial factors also have been found to strengthen risk. (Feskens et al., 1989; Choi et al., 2001; Salman. I et al., 2013; Knowler et al.,1990)
Other risk factors identified are – strong family history of diabetes, age, obesity, and physical inactivity. (Fletcher et al., 2002)
Obesity and body fat distribution are risk factors for both cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Disturbed liver function and increased levels of lactate are prime risk factors. These serve as indicators of the body’s impaired ability to metabolize glucose. (Ohlson et al., 1988)
Diet management is central to diabetes treatment. What is the best diet for people with diabetes is an extensively studied subject. (Elhayany et al., 2010)
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