You’ve Got Prediabetes: Now What?

It seems like we hear more about prediabetes these days than we used to. That could be because Americans are becoming more and more aware about diabetes itself. And while prediabetes is not the same as diabetes, it’s a very big red flag.

Why the red flag?

Here’s what everyone needs to know about people with prediabetes:

· Their body is becoming resistant to insulin. That means that the pancreas is producing insulin, but it’s not being as effective at its job - metabolizing blood sugar - as it should be.

· There aren’t any clear symptoms, so they could have it and not know it.

· Their blood sugar is elevated - not high enough to be called diabetes, but getting close.

· Unless they make some changes in their lifestyle, most people with prediabetes will advance to full-blown diabetes.

Heed that red flag!

According to the Centers for Disease Control, a whopping 70% of the 86 million adult Americans who have prediabetes will progress to diabetes. So when your doctor waves that red flag called prediabetes at you, it’s important for you to realize that you can reverse it and bring your blood sugar levels back into normal range. With some small changes and a determined attitude, you can defy the odds.

Here’s how:

· Lose 5%-7% of your body weight.

· Eat a balanced diet that’s rich in fresh vegetables, protein, and fiber.

· Engage in moderate exercise daily - 30 minutes of brisk walking - at least 5 days per week.

· Make small changes. For example, if you can’t walk 30 briskly for 30 minutes, start with 10, and then add 1-2 minutes per day until you’ve reached the 30-minute goal. In terms of diet, a manageable change might be to substitute plain water for high-calorie juice or soda.

· Check in often with your doctor to see what progress you’ve made.

Prediabetes leads to diabetes which leads to many health issues of the lower limbs. Monmouth County podiatrists Dr. Samantha Boyd, Dr. Hal Ornstein, Dr. Joseph Saka, and Dr. Katy Statler at Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center are experienced in the treatment of the diabetic foot, but we’d rather you didn’t have to see us for that kind of foot care.

Choose to fight the effects of prediabetes. And if you have any questions or need further advice, you can find it at our podiatry office in Howell, New Jersey. Contact us online or give us a ring at (732) 905-1110.