Prediabetes is more common than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States, about 1 in 3 adults has prediabetes, and more than 8 in 10 of them don’t know they have it. . This condition occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. If left unaddressed, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes. Below are steps you can take after being diagnosed with prediabetes to improve your health and lower your risk.
Steps to Take After a Prediabetes Diagnosis:
• Increase Physical Activity: Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. If you haven’t been active recently, start with a manageable plan to ease yourself into regular activity, and build from there.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for managing blood sugar levels.
• Improve Your Diet: Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can help regulate blood sugar. Focus on consuming plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, while reducing intake of processed foods and unhealthy fats.
• Get Quality Sleep: Poor sleep can make it harder for your body to use insulin properly and can also lead to weight gain. Prioritizing good sleep habits can support better blood sugar management.
• Stay in Touch with Your Doctor: Regular check-ups with your doctor are important for monitoring progress and staying on track with your health goals. Your doctor can provide valuable guidance and adjustments to your care plan.
It’s important to remember that a prediabetes diagnosis doesn’t mean you will definitely develop diabetes. By making lifestyle changes and building a good support system, you can significantly reduce your risk and maintain better health.
A home care aide can assist elderly loved ones in putting these recommendations into practice. A home care aide can assist by helping clients be more active, planning and preparing a healthier diet, and for self-monitoring, and reporting any concerns to the family caregiver. If you or someone you care for could benefit from this type of support, give us a call.
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