What is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are raised beyond normal but not so high that the levels are recognised as type 2. It’s often considered a warning sign or a prelude to the development of full-blown type 2 diabetes. Understanding Prediabetes is essential because it offers a window of opportunity to prevent, delay, or reverse the onset of full-blow type2 diabetes through lifestyle changes and other appropriate interventions.
Warning Signs of Prediabetes
It’s important to note that many people with prediabetes may not experience any significant symptoms, which is why regular screening is essential for early detection. That said these are the signs to look out for:
- Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination
- Fatigue
- Blurry Vision
- Slow Wound Healing:
- Recurrent, Frequent Infections: especially skin, gum, or urinary tract infections
- Weight Gain
- Increased Hunger
- Tingling or Numbness
For more information on prediabetes, visit our previous blog below! Or if you would like to change your lifestyle choices and help reduce signs of prediabetes, you can book your free 15-minute consultation below.
Diagnosis and Screening
If you suspect you may have prediabetes or are at risk due to family history or lifestyle factors, you can obtain blood tests (HbA1C or Fasting Plasma Glucose) via your GP or local pharmacy:
- HbA1C Test: This is otherwise known as a glycated haemoglobin test. This test reflects your average blood sugar levels over the preceding 12 weeks. An HbA1C level between above 6.0% and below 6.5% typically indicates prediabetes.
- Fasting Plasma Glucose Test: After fasting for at least eight hours, a blood sample is taken to measure your blood sugar levels. A fasting blood sugar level that is higher or equal to 125 mg/dL (7mmol/l) is seen as consistent with diabetes. Any level below 125 mg/dL (& mmol/L) but higher than 110 mg/dL (6.1mmol/L ) is designated as prediabetes.
For more information on type 2 diabetes, visit our previous blog below!
The Importance of Early Intervention
Prediabetes is a reversible condition, and acting promptly can significantly reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its associated complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and nerve damage and much more.
How can ProLongevity help?
ProLongevity is a program that works through a detailed analysis of what triggers you to experience blood sugar spikes. ProLongevity can help you lose weight, live longer, and reverse life-limiting diseases, including prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia. Our program can effectively prevent and reverse these life-shortening conditions with virtually no risk or side effects.
Prediabetes Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes:
- Including a healthy diet that limits added sugar, processed carbs, and seed (aka vegetable) oils.
Physical Activity:
- Regular exercise as well as taking short breaks to move around during the day.
Weight Management:
- If overweight, losing even a small amount of weight (5-10% of your body weight) can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
Alternative Approaches for Prediabetes Management
While lifestyle changes and medications are the primary approaches to managing prediabetes, some individuals explore alternative therapies to complement their treatment plans. The problem here is a lack of scientific evidence to support their use. That said, here are some of the alternative approaches that may be considered:
1. Herbal Supplements
- Fenugreek – some people use this to reduce their diabetes risks. With 15g of the powder soaked in water, it has been seen to reduce glucose levels after eating.
- Neem – Neem leaves and their extracts have been seen to reduce the level of blood sugars by increasing the use of peripheral glucose, meaning the glucose taken up by muscle tissues.
2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific pressure points on the body. Not only is it claimed to help in lowering blood glucose, but it also claims to prevent other health complications. It is seen to promote insulin synthesis meaning that blood glucose levels could be reduced.
3. Mind-Body Techniques
- Yoga: Regular yoga practice can help reduce stress and improve relaxation and insulin sensitivity.
- Meditation: Mindfulness meditation can help manage stress, which is a key factor in blood sugar regulation.
Full link to the article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249697/
Prediabetes is a critical warning sign that should never be ignored. By recognizing the warning signs, seeking early diagnosis, and implementing lifestyle changes, you can take control of your health and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its many associated complications.
Despite all the alternative therapies, your lifestyle remains by far the biggest factor that causes prediabetes. Our program led by our founder, Graham Phillips, can help you control your blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve the overall quality of life. ProLongevity can offer guidance on how to make lifestyle choices and foster a healthier, more balanced life. ProLongevity can assist you in your diabetes management journey.
For more information visit our program page: https://www.prolongevity.co.uk/programme/
In short, we can help you live healthier for longer.
Book a FREE 15-minute consultation with our founder, Graham Phillips so that we can ensure we can give you the best possible advice. There’s no charge for an initial consultation so what do you have to lose?