Prediabetes
Prediabetes refers to glucose levels that are elevated, but not to the degree of diabetes. The normal fasting glucose level is below 100mg/dl. A diagnosis of diabetes is based on a fasting glucose level above 126mg/dl. The range "in between"- 100mg/dl to 125mg/dl, refers to prediabetes.
Statistically, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that " 96 million people aged 18 years or older have prediabetes (38.0% of the adult US population)". In addition, "26.4 million people aged 65 years or older (48.8%) have prediabetes". Daunting numbers indeed.
Symptoms for prediabetes may include any of the following: frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, changes in body weight, poorly healing wounds, increased appetite and thirst. These symptoms may go unrecognized, depending on a persons diet, lifestyle, work and family history. Left untreated, a large percentage of persons with prediabetes will go on to develop diabetes or other chronic health conditions. Early detection is paramount to lower the risk of long term complications.
For more information of diabetes, prediabetes and associated conditions, check out reputable websites such as the American Diabetes Association. They offer classes and programs centered around prediabetes to educate you on diet and lifestyle changes.
