Prediabetes is a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Here are the symptoms, risk factors, and management strategies for prediabetes:

Symptoms of Prediabetes

Prediabetes often doesn’t show noticeable symptoms, but some people may experience:

1. Increased thirst and hunger: As your body becomes less responsive to insulin, you may feel thirstier and hungrier.
2. Fatigue: High blood sugar levels can cause fatigue, which can be mistaken for other conditions.
3. Blurred vision: High blood sugar levels can cause blurred vision, which can be a symptom of prediabetes.
4. Slow healing of cuts and bruises
5. tingling and numbness of hands and feet

Risk Factors for Prediabetes

You’re more likely to develop prediabetes if you:

1. Are overweight or obese: Excess weight, particularly around the waist, increases your risk.
2. Are physically inactive: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to insulin resistance.
3. Have a family history of diabetes: If your parents or siblings have diabetes, you’re more likely to develop prediabetes.
4. Are over 45 years old: Age increases your risk, especially after 45.
5. Have a history of gestational diabetes: Women who had gestational diabetes during pregnancy are more likely to develop prediabetes.

Managing Prediabetes

To manage prediabetes and prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes:

1. Lose weight: Aim for a 5-10% weight loss to improve insulin sensitivity.
2. Exercise regularly: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise, or a combination of both, per week.
3. Eat a balanced diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
4. Choose low-carb, high-fiber foods: Limit sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats.
5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
6. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate blood sugar levels.
7. Manage stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

If you’re diagnosed with prediabetes:

1. Get regular check-ups: Schedule regular health check-ups to monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust your management plan as needed.
2. Monitor your blood sugar levels: Use a glucometer to track your blood sugar levels, especially after meals and before bedtime.
3. Adjust your lifestyle habits: Continuously work on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.

Remember, prediabetes is a reversible condition. By making lifestyle changes and managing your risk factors, you can prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and improve your overall health.