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Prediabetes is when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. Prediabetes is still serious as it raises your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. If prediabetes is taken seriously, type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed.
Many people can have prediabetes without realising it because they don’t have any symptoms. Being active, losing excess weight, and eating healthy can all make a big difference in preventing prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes.
Did you know? It is estimated that over 280,000 adults in Ireland will have diabetes by the year 2035 according to the IDF (International Diabetes Federation).
Can you reverse prediabetes?
Evidence suggests that prediabetes is a highly reversible condition. According to the HSE, weight loss and increased levels of physical activity, as well as moving towards a healthier diet, can pose significant benefits. Researchers at the NIH found that losing 5-7% of a person's body weight significantly reduced their chances of developing type 2 diabetes.
What exactly is type 2 diabetes? Find out here.
Factors of prediabetes:
- Overweight or obese
- Age 45 and older
- Physical inactivity
- History of heart disease or a stroke
- Family history (risk of diabetes increases if you have a parent or sibling with diabetes)
Symptoms:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Tiredness
- Blurred vision
- Unintended weight loss
- Numbness/tingling in hands or feet
Some people may not notice any symptoms.
Current Studies to advance knowledge:
Do you have raised blood sugars? We are currently evaluating the effect of a fibre supplement on long-term glucose control in those with pre-diabetes and are looking for volunteers.
Click here to learn more about our Pre-diabetes study.
Do you experience high blood glucose levels, cholesterol, blood pressure or have a high waist circumference? We are evaluating the effect of a probiotic on insulin resistance in those with Metabolic Syndrome.
Click here to learn more about our Metabolic syndrome study.
