Prediabetes Definition

Prediabetes is a medical condition in which blood sugar levels are elevated above the healthy range but are not yet high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. People with prediabetes do not always become diabetics. Making positive lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can reverse the condition, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Statistics

• According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 57 million Americans are prediabetics. Many are unaware they have the condition.

Symptoms

• Most people with prediabetes have no symptoms, but if you know you are prediabetic, you should take note of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and inform your doctor if you experience them. Diabetes symptoms include unusual thirst or hunger, frequent urination, fatigue and weakness and blurred vision.

Damage

• According to the American Diabetes Association, new research shows that the damage diabetes does to the circulatory system and heart actually begins in prediabetes.

Prevention

• You can prevent prediabetes, and therefore the progression to diabetes, by practicing healthy living: eat a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise and keep your weight in a healthy range.

Risk Factors

• In addition to being overweight and not getting enough exercise, women who had gestational diabetes or who have polycystic ovary syndrome are at a greater risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes. Hispanics, African-Americans, Asian-Americans and American Indians are also at a greater risk.