How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes in Prediabetics

Diabetes is an endocrine condition where the pancreas either doesn’t produce insulin or it still produces insulin and the body will not use that insulin correctly. The result is blood sugar readings that are either too high or too low than what is needed in the body.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• exercise
• better diet
• weight loss

1. There are two types of diabetes; type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes, usually is diagnosed in younger people and is where the pancreas does not produce insulin and the diabetic will need to take insulin shots to live. According to the ADA (American Diabetes Association), only 5-10% of those with diabetes are in the Type 1 category. Type 2 diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes or non insulin dependent diabetes, is usually diagnosed in older people and is where the pancreas may still be producing insulin but the body is not using it correctly. In type 2 diabetes there is a possibility of diet and exercise helping but with others insulin shots will be needed.

2. What is Prediabetes
   According to the ADA there are 57 million Americans that are currently in the prediabetic stage of life. This is where their blood glucose is higher than normal but not yet in the range that is considered to be diabetic. There are those that should be tested for prediabetes if they fall into certain categories and if they are found to be prediabetic there are ways to avoid and prevent getting type 2 diabetes.

3. Testing for Prediabetes
   Those that fall into the “watch category” for prediabetes are those that are over the age of 45 and overweight or those that are under the age of 45 and overweight plus have other diabetic risk factors. Some of these risk factors include family history, smoking, poor diet, and inactivity.

4. Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
   If found to be prediabetic there are things that can be done to prevent type 2 diabetes.
   • Reduce weight. As little as 10 pounds could make a difference.
   • Exercise. Even if it’s walking, an exercise 30 minutes a day can help the body and insulin usage.
   • Healthy Diet. Eat right and you can reduce your chances even further.
   • Portion Control. Eating in the right portions and not gorging can really help your body use its hormones correctly.

5. While there are more people with Type 2 diabetes than Type 1, there are still those things that you can do to prevent your chances of developing this still very devastating condition.