Prediabetes: The Not-So-Sweet Truth

November 7, 2016 Leo Smith, MD

facts-about-prediabetesAbout 75 million Americans have type 2 diabetes or are on their way to developing it. People with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing the disease within a decade unless they take action.

“Prediabetes is a warning sign to change your lifestyle,” said Leo Smith, MD, a family medicine physician with St. Joseph Health Medical Group in Santa Rosa. “People with diabetes are at increased risk of serious health problems – they are twice as likely to develop heart disease, for example – so it’s important to do what you can to prevent it.”

Dr. Smith offers these suggestions for keeping diabetes at bay:

  • Lose weight. People at risk of diabetes can lower their disease risk by losing 10 to 15 pounds.
  • Exercise. Start moving. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking briskly, every day.
  • Adjust your diet. Control portion size and cut down on saturated fats. Eat more vegetables, fruits, fish, chicken and lean cuts of meat.
  • See your doctor. If you have prediabetes, your doctor will want to check for signs of heart disease and blood vessel problems. Your doctor may also give you a medicine to help prevent or delay the disease.

Risk Factors

Your chances of developing diabetes go up if you:

  • are 45 or older
  • have high blood pressure – 140/90 or higher
  • are African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian American, or Pacific Islander
  • have a parent or sibling with diabetes
  • are overweight or obese
  • are physically inactive
  • have low HDL cholesterol and/or high triglycerides
  • are a woman who had diabetes during pregnancy
Previous Article
He's Got His Rhythm Back
He's Got His Rhythm Back

A Healthy Heartbeat is Restored with Ablation

Next Article
Alternative Milks Do a Body Good if You're Lactose Intolerant
Alternative Milks Do a Body Good if You're Lactose Intolerant

A look at alternative milks