When blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet at the critical levels of diabetes, doctors talk about prediabetes. This is a hidden and often asymptomatic condition that becomes a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes at this stage can save you from serious complications.
Gastroenterologist and nutritionist Oleg Shvets explains: prediabetes is a disorder of glucose regulation. It is also called impaired fasting glycemia, carbohydrate intolerance, or non-diabetic hyperglycemia.
Symptoms and first signs
In most cases, people do not notice specific symptoms. However, it is worth paying attention to the following manifestations: increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, dark areas of skin or small growths on the neck or armpits.
In women, frequent urinary tract infections or candidiasis, heavy menstruation, dryness and discomfort during intimacy, as well as problems with conception can be signals.
Why does prediabetes occur?
The main cause is insulin resistance. The body produces insulin, but the cells stop using it effectively. This causes the blood glucose level to rise. The condition is caused by heredity, excess weight, stress, lack of sleep, inactivity, a diet high in processed foods, endocrine diseases (Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism), and long-term use of steroids.
People over 45, those with obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, those who do little to no exercise, and women with a history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome are also at increased risk.
Diagnostics
Doctors use three main methods:
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fasting blood test (5.6–6.9 mmol/l is a sign of prediabetes);
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glucose tolerance test (7.8–11 mmol/l two hours after exercise);
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analysis for HbA1c level (5.7–6.4%).
Healthy people are advised to check their sugar levels every three years, and those with prediabetes are advised to do so every year.
Without treatment, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes, which can lead to kidney, heart, and vascular disease, loss of vision, and even loss of limbs. Prediabetes can also cause so-called “silent heart attacks.”
Treatment and prevention
The main method is lifestyle changes:
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healthy eating with an emphasis on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats;
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regular physical activity of at least 150 minutes per week;
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weight loss of at least 5–10%;
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quality sleep of at least 7 hours;
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quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.
In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe medication, including metformin.
" Prediabetes is a chance to stop diabetes before it starts destroying the body. Everything is in a person's hands: nutrition, exercise, weight control, and preventive examinations ," emphasizes Oleg Shvets.
