PREDIABETES
People diagnosed with prediabetes have a real opportunity. During this stage, it simply means your blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes where your body no longer processes glucose (or sugar) appropriately. This is a common condition, affecting approximately 79 million people in the United States. There are many reasons for the rising rate of prediabetes, such as diets high in carbohydrates, inactivity, genetics or other competing health concerns.
Unfortunately, many people accept the prediabetes diagnosis fate, especially if they’re overweight or have a family history of the disease. Fortunately, there are ways to reverse the course of the condition, but it starts with a proper diagnosis.
The most common test used to diagnose prediabetes is a simple blood test called an A1C (glycated hemoglobin), which measures the average blood sugar level for the past two or three months. Another option includes a fasting blood sugar test taken after not eating or drinking for at least 8 hours.
Once confirmed, the Metabolic Center for Wellness team will work to understand your lifestyle and time demands, then will develop a customized treatment plan based on the following elements:
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Nutrition – By adopting a diet with the right amount of carbohydrates and nutrients, we can help kick-start your metabolism into becoming more efficient. This doesn’t mean we’re eliminating all carbs, we’re simply encouraging patients to eat the right carbs at the right times of day, along with other dietary modifications for good health.
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Exercise – Increased activity of any kind will help your system better process blood sugar and promote overall wellness. Since everyone cannot make it to the gym five times a week, the team will take your health status and schedule into account when creating an exercise program that works for you.
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Weight Control – Sometimes just losing even five to 10 percent of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. But that’s easier said that done, so we offer a comprehensive weight loss program to help you reach your ultimate goal.
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Medications – When lifestyle modifications are not enough, there are medications like Metformin to assist those falling in the high-risk category…people with a body mass index above 35, those under the age of 60 and women with a history of gestational diabetes.
If you’re in a high-risk group for prediabetes or are experiencing symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue or blurred vision, contact us today. We can help you regain control of your health.