Pre-diabetes is a condition that significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Although it is a "silent disease" because it has no symptoms, you shouldn’t ignore it! You can see pre-diabetes as an opportunity, because you're still on time to prevent the onset of diabetes.
Once diabetes is developed, there is no cure. However, if your doctor tells you that you have pre-diabetes, you still have the chance of preventing its progression to diabetes. How? With a few changes in your lifestyle:
- Follow a balanced dietthat is low in fat and calories, in order to maintain a healthy weight. Consult your dietitian about the best diet plan for you.
- Lose weight. According to the American Diabetes Association, weight loss of only 5 to 10 percent of current body weight (about 10 to 15 pounds) is enough to start getting health benefits while reducing the risk of diabetes, as well as of other health problems.
- Exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise 5 days a week.
- Don't smoke. By increasing the risk of diabetes, pre-diabetes also increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, like heart attack and stroke. Quitting smoking will help reduce this risk.
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American Diabetes Association (2005). All About Pre-Diabetes. Revised January, 2009 from http://www.diabetes.org/uedocuments/01.sp.PreDiabetes.pdf.
American Diabetes Association. Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Diabetes. Revised January, 2009 from http://www.diabetes.org/espanol/prevencion-diabetes/preguntas-frecuentes-sobre-pre-diabetes.jsp.
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