Diabetes Care Community

Category: Prediabetes

Prediabetes articles and posts

  • What is the blood sugar range for prediabetes in Canada?

    What is the blood sugar range for prediabetes in Canada?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Before being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your body may provide signals that there is something not quite right with your blood sugar levels. This could mean you have prediabetes. Here’s how to find out the blood sugar range for prediabetes so you can start to make changes to help get your body back on track—and maybe even prevent type 2 diabetes from developing in the first place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    What is prediabetes?

    When your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but still not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes, you could have ‘prediabetes’. Having prediabetes doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get diabetes, but it does mean you need to take steps to manage your blood sugar better.

    What is the blood sugar range for prediabetes?

    There are simple blood tests to help determine whether you have prediabetes, so be sure to ask your doctor about them. If your:

    • fasting blood sugar is between 6.1 to 6.9 mmol/L OR
    • A1C results fall between 6.0% to 6.4% OR
    • oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is 7.8 to 11.0 mmol/L (2 hours after the beginning of the test)

    you have prediabetes. Of course, if the results are even higher, you may be diagnosed with diabetes.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”prediabetes-or-type-2-diabetes-how-do-i-know/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Are there any symptoms of prediabetes?

    Often there are no overt symptoms when you have prediabetes, which is why blood tests are the most accurate way to find out for sure. But there are certain risk factors that may put prediabetes on your radar.  For example, having an immediate family member with the condition, being overweight or obese, and having high blood pressure are all factors that could increase your risk of prediabetes.

    Prediabetes can also be part of a condition called metabolic syndrome where you may have a combination of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, elevated blood sugars or excess fat around the waist.

    Find a full list of the signs and symptoms of prediabetes here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    How do you get checked for prediabetes?

    Your doctor or other healthcare provider will test you for prediabetes. Given that the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, Diabetes Canada recommends individuals get screened by testing fasting plasma glucose and/or A1C every three years as of the age of 40. If you have other risk factors, you should be testing more frequently and even earlier.

    How is prediabetes managed?

    Blood sugar management for prediabetes is particularly important given that long-term complications associated with diabetes can start even at the prediabetes stage. In some cases, adopting healthy lifestyle changes with a good diet and regular exercise may be enough to keep blood sugar levels on track. Medications (e.g., metformin) can also be an effective means of helping manage prediabetes too.

    Be sure to talk to your physician or other healthcare provider about strategies that are best for you.

    Here are some tips for starting on metformin.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Can prediabetes be prevented?

    The good news is that prediabetes can be prevented and even reversed. The ideal way to do that is by:

    • Eating a healthy diet
    • Exercising regularly
    • Dropping weight if needed
    • Taking your medication as prescribed
    • Scheduling regular checkups with your healthcare team to help keep you on track

    Here’s more information on ways to reverse diabetes.

    Knowing your blood sugar range for pre-diabetes can help you determine whether you’re at risk or have already developed the condition. Either way, equipped with the right information, you can take steps to improve your blood sugar levels and better your health.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”blood-sugar-levels-in-canada/ “][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Get motivated to lose weight!

    Get motivated to lose weight!

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you have prediabetes, maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent you from getting diabetes. And, if you have diabetes, the good news is that studies have shown that losing even a little weight – between 5% and 10% of initial body weight – can improve your diabetes control and reduce the risk of complications. So, if you weigh 200 pounds, losing 10 or 20 pounds can improve your blood sugar levels, and prevent or delay complications (for example, heart, kidney or eye disease).[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]So, if you want to get motivated to shed those extra pounds, take charge with nutrition and lifestyle changes. Here’s how!

    Start with the three C’s:

    • Commitment to planning a healthy lifestyle to lose weight.
    • Consistency in maintaining healthy habits to control your weight, and keep those excess pounds from returning.
    • Communication, to ensure you get ongoing weight loss support and information from trustworthy sources.

    [/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”get-motivated-to-prevent-diabetes/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Commitment: Make the decision

    Meal planning and weight management ideas to help you get started

    • Decrease your food intake. Although many people eat healthy food, they simply eat too much of it. Eating three meals a day – spaced about six hours apart – reduces overeating. Use Canada’s Food Guide the plate method or the handy portion guide to help with portion control.
    • Get in touch with your appetite. Ask yourself if you are truly hungry. Avoid eating out of habit, boredom or for emotional reasons. Eat slowly. It takes your brain about 20 minutes to realize that your stomach is full.
    • Create a healthy eating environment. Plate your food in the kitchen and bring your plate to the table. Keep extra servings away from the table to reduce the temptation to overeat. Eat at the table rather than in front of the television or computer screen.
    • Add physical activity. While it’s possible to lose weight through diet alone, it is definitely more difficult if you don’t increase your activity levels. Exercising will help you burn off calories. For more information about exercise and physical activity, click here.
    • Drink alcohol in moderation. While moderate amounts of alcohol may cause blood sugar to rise, excess alcohol intake can actually lower your blood sugar level – sometimes causing it to drop to dangerous levels. Beer and sweet wine also contain carbohydrates, which can raise blood sugar.

    Consistency: Maintain it!

    Tips to keep you motivated on your weight loss journey

    • Make a weekly meal plan accompanied by a grocery list for all the ingredients you’ll need. Having everything at hand when you’re ready to cook will help motivate you to make the effort, and it will make the process of meal prep more straightforward.
    • Involve family members and friends in your meal planning: let the kids pitch in, or spend quality time with your partner in the kitchen. Together, you’ll prepare healthy meals and have fun while you’re at it!
    • Find a weight loss and exercise buddy whether it’s a family member or friend. You’ll motivate each other to complete your scheduled workouts and meet your weight loss goals.
    • Set weekly or monthly weight loss goals, and reward yourself when you reach them. With an end outcome in sight, chances are you will stick to your plan and see it through.
    • Book an appointment with a dietitian. Taking your food and eating preferences into account, they can help you design a long-term eating plan that is nutritious and delicious.

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    Communication: Get support

    Stay connected and communicate with your support group!

    Many people find it helpful to meet with people who are also trying to lose weight – either online or in person. Think about joining a group for weight loss, exercise or general support. Or create your own support network by talking with friends and family about your successes and your struggles. You may be surprised at how supportive they will be.

    In person or online, you can stay in touch with ones that you trust to help keep you motivated. Where motivation is concerned, it’s important to take the “long view” with respect to your weight loss. You won’t reach your goal overnight; rather, your journey toward healthy eating and weight loss will last a lifetime. Getting help from coaches and counsellors, as well as using technology (websites and apps), can help you maintain your motivation and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Here are some useful ways to navigate long-term motivational issues.

    Healthcare coaching

    Your healthcare team members may include your doctor, a nurse, a dietitian, a pharmacist, a social worker and an exercise specialist. Every member of your healthcare team can act as a coach to help you navigate a myriad of health and motivational issues, including:

    • Educating you about healthy weight
    • Developing a healthy eating and weight loss plan
    • Developing a physical activity regimen to help you lose weight and keep it off
    • Providing emotional and psychological support

    A recent study in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes demonstrated that patients who used health coaches had lower body weight, as well as significant improvements in their A1C levels and enhanced physical activity levels.

    Technology coaching

    Technology is such a big part of everyone’s lives today, and it can actually motivate you in your weight loss management. Many websites and apps are available to help inspire you and keep you on track. They can assist with meal planning, charting your calorie and/or food intake, recording your physical activity and weight loss, and tracking your blood sugar levels.

    A 2018 study explored the use of a mobile app to promote adherence to weight reduction and physical activity in people with prediabetes. The researchers found that participants found the app convenient and beneficial. Participants experienced an average weight loss of about 1.5 kilograms over the three-month study period; physical activity among participants also increased and A1C levels decreased.

    Motivation over the long-term is essential to managing your weight. The key to staying motivated is to think about your successes rather than your disappointments … think “delight” rather than “damage control!” When you find the motivational strategies that work for you in all areas of your weight management, such as health coaching and technology aids – you’ll be developing habits that will help you live a long and healthy life.[/vc_column_text][read-also-article article-slug=”motivation-and-diabetes-a-delicate-balance/”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: how do I know?

    Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: how do I know?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The reality is, you can have prediabetes and even type 2 diabetes, without realizing it because the symptoms may not be apparent. Left unmanaged, there is a good chance prediabetes will turn into type 2 diabetes eventually. If you’ve already been diagnosed with prediabetes by your healthcare provider, it is therefore important to get your blood sugar levels under control so you can avoid or delay developing type 2 diabetes.

    Here’s a look at the differences between prediabetes versus type 2 diabetes and how to determine if you’re at increased risk. With either condition, the good news is that there are ways to help you get your health back on track.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    What’s the difference between prediabetes and type 2 diabetes?

    When your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or stops responding to insulin (which is needed to convert blood sugar into energy), your blood sugar levels rise. If these levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes, you have prediabetes. Often prediabetes will turn into type 2 diabetes, especially if your blood sugar levels are left uncontrolled.

    Your risk of additional health problems increases significantly with type 2 diabetes. That’s why it’s important to make lifestyle changes, such as losing weight if needed, staying active and eating a healthy diet, to prevent prediabetes from progressing to full-on type 2 diabetes. Read more on what you can do to help prevent type 2 diabetes.

    If you suspect you have prediabetes or wonder if it’s already progressed to type 2 diabetes, see your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. There are several types of blood tests that will help determine if your prediabetes has progressed, and the sooner you get on top of that the better.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot 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slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont3′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Read more about medications to manage your diabetes

    Remember that not all cases of prediabetes progress to type 2 diabetes. By properly managing your blood sugar levels, eating well and staying active, there is a good chance you can delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes from developing in the first place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • How do I know if I have prediabetes?

    How do I know if I have prediabetes?

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When you have prediabetes, you’re at much greater risk of getting type 2 diabetes too, along with other diabetes-related health conditions such as heart disease and stroke. The good news is that you can delay or even reverse the onset of diabetes by making some key lifestyle changes. First though, it’s important to determine if you have prediabetes so you can make a plan.

    What is prediabetes?

    When your blood sugar levels are high, but not high enough to be considered diabetes, you may have prediabetes. It may also be referred to as ‘borderline diabetes’. This often happens when the insulin in your body isn’t working as optimally as it should and therefore too much sugar builds up in your blood.

    Signs and symptoms of prediabetes

    Usually there are no noticeable symptoms associated with prediabetes, so a blood test is the best way to determine if you have the condition. Keep in mind that any of the following could put you at risk:

    • You have an immediate family member with diabetes
    • You are overweight or obese
    • You live a sedentary lifestyle
    • You have a high waist circumference
    • You had gestational diabetes (during pregnancy) or had a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds
    • You have high blood pressure
    • Your HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is too low or your triglyceride level is too high
    • You’re of African, Native American or Latin American descent or an Asian/Pacific Islander
    • You take certain medications, such as corticosteroids or beta-blockers.

    Find more information on prediabetes risks here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont1′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][read-also-article article-slug=”a-prediabetes-exercise-program-can-help-prevent-type-2-diabetes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    How do I get diagnosed?

    Your doctor will give you a blood test, which typically consists of testing your fasting sugar levels first (i.e. your blood sugar level before you eat in the morning). If the test indicates a high blood sugar, your doctor will then do an A1C test, which provides an average of your blood sugar levels over the last three months.

    Be sure to get checked for prediabetes if you’re 45 years of age or older, or if you have any of the signs and symptoms above.

    How do I manage prediabetes?

    One great way to manage prediabetes is to lose weight (if you need to), get regular exercise and follow a healthy diet. Here are 8 easy steps you can start taking right now that can help you improve your lifestyle and reverse prediabetes.

    Keep in mind that your doctor may still prescribe medication if you’re at high risk for diabetes and already have other medical issues, such as high blood pressure. Read more about why prediabetes may require you to take medication here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][ad-slot slotcode=’div-gpt-ad-lb-resp-cont2′][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

    What’s a prediabetes diet?

    Eating healthy is a good way to delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and its associated health issues. Take a look at Canada’s Food Guide to see what foods you should be incorporating into your diet in order to reduce health risks and maintain a healthy weight. Ideally you should be limiting processed foods and those high in fat, sugar or salt. You should also be eating three meals a day, no more than six hours apart, to help keep your blood sugar levels controlled.

    How do I prevent type 2 diabetes?

    If you’re diagnosed with prediabetes, it’s important to make a plan to get yourself on a healthier track as soon as possible. Remember that you can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes with some key lifestyle changes. Find some more great tips on how to live a healthier life that may prevent type 2 diabetes here.

    If you are concerned about having prediabetes, talk to your healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis. When you know what’s going on in your body, you can take the initiative to implement changes to get on top of your health.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Prediabetes may mean medications

    Prediabetes may mean medications

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you, a family member or a friend has been diagnosed with prediabetes, you may be confused about what exactly this means. Does it mean that diabetes is the next step? Is there anything that can be done to stop prediabetes turning into type 2 diabetes?

    Let’s add a little clarity. Prediabetes is a condition where the body’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but are not yet high enough to qualify for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. That is, the fasting plasma glucose level is between 6.1-6.9 mmol/L.

    Over time, prediabetes may progress to type 2 diabetes for some people. For others, the condition may be able to be controlled, keeping blood glucose levels within target levels and avoiding or delaying the onset of diabetes. This will almost certainly call for lifestyle changes and may also require medications.

    Blood glucose management for prediabetes is particularly important since long-term complications associated with diabetes can begin at the prediabetes stage. For more information about the effects of diabetes and medications on the body, please read our expert blogger’s article Oral Medications for Type 2.

    Guidelines for managing prediabetes

    In some cases, healthy lifestyle changes can effectively keep blood glucose levels within normal targets. For example, Diabetes Canada advises that losing even a moderate amount of weight through healthy eating and regular activity can have a significant effect.

    For many other people, however, lifestyle changes alone may not be able to maintain target blood glucose levels. In these cases, you may also need to take medications. This is also likely for people who have other factors that place them at high risk of diabetes or diabetes complications such as cardiovascular disease etc.

    Diabetes Canada guidelines recommend metformin initially for those with prediabetes or otherwise at high risk of diabetes. Other medications may also be prescribed to help control cholesterol or high blood pressure.

    Medications can be an effective tool in helping to manage prediabetes. However, always remember that they need to be combined with lifestyle changes to obtain and maintain desired results.

    Talk to your diabetes healthcare team together about the strategies that will work best for you. Also discuss what ongoing screening should be maintained to keep good track of your condition. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_message]Learn more about prediabetes here.[/vc_message][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Prediabetes – tips for living a healthy life

    Prediabetes – tips for living a healthy life

    Have you or someone close to you been diagnosed with prediabetes? Check out these tips and ideas for living healthily with the condition.

    Let’s start with the basics: prediabetes is diagnosed when an individual’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Specifically, if your fasting plasma glucose level is between 6.1-6.9 mmol/L or your A1C is between 6.0-6.4%, your medical professional will diagnose you as having prediabetes. 

    The bad and the good news about prediabetes

    It’s important to recognize that prediabetes is a serious condition that increases the risk for type 2 diabetes. People with prediabetes are also at higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

    The good news is that prediabetes can be treated and the risk of complications can be greatly reduced. Indeed, with dietary changes and increased physical activity, some people are able to return to normal blood glucose levels.

    Large-scale studies have shown that by cutting calories, reducing fat intake and exercising at least 150 minutes a week, the number of individuals with prediabetes who then progressed to diabetes was reduced by an amazing 58%.

    For some people, lifestyle changes alone are not able to produce the desired health improvements. In these cases, medications are known to help prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes from prediabetes. Generally effective medications include metformin and acarbose.

    Move towards a healthy diet

    Take small steps as you move towards a diet that will help reduce health risks and promote weight management. Ask your health professional for a referral to a dietitian, who can help you understand the basics of healthy eating for prediabetes.

    General guidelines include reducing or removing processed foods, which are often high in trans-fats (unhealthy fats), calories and carbs. Recommendations will also include increased daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, and keeping a close eye on portion control.

    Further resources to help with healthy eating

    In her article on this site entitled Eating to prevent diabetes, our expert blogger reports that the single most important thing anyone can do to prevent diabetes is to lose weight.  

    For achieving and maintaining a healthier weight, Canada’s Food Guide recommends limiting foods and beverages high in calories, fat, sugar or salt. You can get a copy of Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide by clicking here. 

    If you would like to review specific diabetes dietary recommendations, check out the Diabetes Diet section of this site, which includes meal plans and recipes in addition to valuable overall guidelines.

    Physical activity with prediabetes

    A minimum of 150 minutes exercise a week of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is recommended for all adults in the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines. For those with type 2 diabetes, an additional 3 weekly sessions of resistance activity are recommended.

    Not quite sure what qualifies as moderate-to-vigorous activity? Check out our article on this site What is moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity?