Hearing the term “pre-diabetes” can feel confusing or even alarming. In actuality, it can be an opportunity. Pre-diabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

With the right changes, pre-diabetes can often be managed or even reversed before it leads to something more serious.

Understanding Pre-Diabetes

Blood sugar (or glucose) comes from the food you eat. Normally, insulin helps move sugar from your blood into your cells to make energy. With pre-diabetes, your body either doesn’t use insulin well or doesn’t make enough of it. This leads to glucose building up in your bloodstream.

People with pre-diabetes are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But many people don’t know they have it because pre-diabetes often has no symptoms.

Pre Diabetes WFMC Health

Are You at Risk?

Certain factors can increase your risk for pre-diabetes. These include:

  • A family history of type 2 diabetes
  • Being 45 or older
  • Having high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels
  • A history of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby over 9 pounds
  • Physical inactivity
  • Being overweight

If you have one or more of these risk factors, it’s a good idea to talk to your provider about getting screened.

How Is Pre-Diabetes Diagnosed?

Your provider can check for pre-diabetes with simple blood tests. The most common ones include:

  • Fasting blood glucose test: Measures blood sugar after not eating for at least 8 hours.
  • A1C test: Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.
  • Oral glucose tolerance test: Checks how your body processes sugar by measuring your blood glucose before and after you drink a sugary beverage.

If your results fall in a certain range, you may have pre-diabetes. Your provider will explain what the numbers mean and what your next steps are.

What Can You Do About It?

The most powerful thing about a pre-diabetes diagnosis is that it gives you a chance to act early. Small, consistent changes can go a long way in improving your blood sugar and overall health.

Start with these steps:

  • Move more: Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. Walking counts!
  • Eat well: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. Cut back on drinks with high sugar content and processed foods.
  • Get enough sleep and manage stress: Sleep and mental health are both important factors when it comes to regulating your blood sugar.
  • Stay on top of regular check-ups: Regular visits with your primary care provider can help track your progress and adjust as needed.

You don’t have to do it all at once, and you have people in your corner. Support from your care team can help make the process manageable and meaningful.

Take the First Step

If you’re concerned about your risk for pre-diabetes or want to know more about prevention, schedule a visit with your provider. At WFMC Health, we believe in empowering you with the information and tools you need to take charge of your health.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.