Research by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows that up to one-third of Americans live with the health disorder known as prediabetes. More disturbing is the fact that up to 30-percent of these individuals are at risk of the condition developing into type 2 diabetes within 5-years.
While medical science is unable to identify the exact causes of prediabetes, a sedentary lifestyle along with a poor diet is the leading suspected cause of the development of the condition.
Prediabetes Explained
Individuals with sustained high blood glucose levels above the normal range are at risk of developing prediabetes. This condition is also known as “impaired glucose tolerance,” where the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin created by the pancreas.
Insulin resistance lowers the physiological response to the hormone, reducing the body’s ability to assimilate and distribute glycogen. In turn, the pancreas increases production of insulin to compensate for the body’s diminished ability to utilize the hormone efficiently.
Symptoms and Signs of Prediabetes
Unfortunately, the signs and symptoms of prediabetes are subtle, and more than 90-percent of individuals suffering from the blood glucose disorder are unaware of their condition. If left undiagnosed and untreated, prediabetes eventually leads to the manifestation of type 2 diabetes.
There are a few symptoms of prediabetes common in most cases.
Fatigue is the most common symptom reported by individuals suffering from prediabetes. Inefficient insulin production and rising insulin resistance from a dysfunctional pancreas create wild fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
Prediabetic individuals experience fatigue throughout the day, with intense feelings of tiredness in the late afternoon and evening, usually in the hours after eating a meal.
Another common symptom of prediabetes is a discoloration of the skin, with darkened patches appearing around the armpits, knuckles, neck, knees, and elbows.
As the disorder progresses, it’s common for individuals to experience excessive thirst, blurred vision, and an increase in the frequency of urination.
Treating Prediabetes
Treating type 2 diabetes requires individuals living with the disease to undergo life-long hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that includes the administration of exogenous insulin.
However, those individuals diagnosed with prediabetes may have a chance to cure their condition without the need for drug protocols.
Adjustments to lifestyle and eating habits are the most effective form of treatment for individuals suffering from prediabetes.
Today’s fast-paced, modern society, values convenience. Unfortunately, a fast food diet and lack of exercise lead to the development of physiological diseases and disorders, such as prediabetes and diabetes type 2.
Individuals diagnosed as Prediabetic should review their current diet and exercise regimen. Those that find they overeat fast food and refined sugar products should consult with a licensed dietician.
During the consultation, your dietician will advise you on a healthy, balanced approach to eating.
Work with a personal trainer to implement a training program that suits your physique and health status. Increasing activity levels helps to burn off extra calories and reduce blood glucose levels.
Don’t expect a radical change overnight. It may take several weeks of diligent commitment to diet and exercise to see results in your bloodwork.
