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Have you been told you have prediabetes? If so, you aren’t alone! Almost 90 million Americans have prediabetes.
But what exactly is the condition and how does it relate to diabetes? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Northern Liberties sheds some light on the topic.
Does Prediabetes Always Turn Into Diabetes?
The short answer is no! Being diagnosed with prediabetes does not automatically mean you will end up with diabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar (blood glucose) is elevated, but not to the level of diabetes. If you’ve been told you have prediabetes, consider it a red flag alerting you to change your habits and improve your health.
Prediabetes Risk Factors
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a sedentary lifestyle
- Eating a poor diet high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium
- Being age 45 or older
- Having a family history of diabetes
- Having high blood pressure
How Can I Avoid Getting Diabetes?
We mentioned that a diagnosis of prediabetes is a red flag. If you’ve been told you have elevated blood sugar, take it as an opportunity to improve your health.
While Type 1 diabetes is thought to have a genetic component and usually diagnosed in childhood, Type 2 diabetes is often preventable since it relates to lifestyle factors. You can take steps to lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
How to Reduce Your Type 2 Diabetes Risk
- Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies.
- Limit your intake of saturated fats, sodium and added sugars.
- Choose lean proteins and whole grains.
- Aim to exercise at least 30 minutes most days.
- Talk with your doctor about ways to lower your blood pressure, if it’s high.
- Get to and maintain a healthy weight.
Feeling under the weather? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Northern Liberties to get the care you need from the safety and comfort of home.
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