What is prediabetes?
Blood glucose is higher than normal but not high enough to call diabetes. Common cut-offs are a fasting glucose of 100 to 125 mg/dL, a glucose of 140 to 199 mg/dL two hours after a 75 g glucose drink, or an HbA1c of 5.7% to 6.4%. Guidelines differ slightly, so your doctor will tell you which applies.
Who is at risk?
- A parent or sibling with diabetes
- Extra weight, especially around the waist (South Asians can develop diabetes at a lower body weight)
- PCOS, or diabetes during a past pregnancy
- High blood pressure, high cholesterol or fatty liver
- Little physical activity or poor sleep
Does it cause symptoms?
Usually not. Most people find out from a routine blood test, which is why testing matters if you have risk factors.
What helps
- Gradual weight loss if you are overweight. Losing 5% to 7% of your weight lowers the risk of diabetes.
- About 150 minutes a week of brisk activity, plus muscle-strengthening exercise on two days.
- More vegetables, pulses and whole grains, and fewer sugary drinks and refined foods.
- Regular sleep, and stopping smoking.
Medicines are sometimes added for people at high risk. This is an individual decision made with your doctor.
Follow-up
Repeat the tests at least once a year, or sooner if your risk is high or your weight changes.
When to see a specialist
Consider an opinion if your HbA1c is rising, you are young, you also have PCOS or fatty liver, or your sugars swing widely.
This guide is general information and is not a substitute for a consultation.