Prediabetes is a warning state for our health, marking the point at which blood sugar levels begin to be abnormal but do not yet reach the diagnostic values for type 2 diabetes. It is a critical moment that alerts us to the urgent need to adopt a lifestyle healthy to prevent serious complications. This article delves into the symptoms, causes, risk factors and, above all, ways to prevent and manage this condition effectively.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes is a condition in which the blood glucose level is high above normal, but not enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. However, if preventive measures are not taken, it can evolve into full-blown diabetes, which significantly increases the risk of enfermedades cardiovascular, renal and other complications.
Causes of prediabetes
The main causes of prediabetes are related to the body's inability to use or produce insulin effectively. Common reasons include:
- Resistance to insulin: The body's tissues stop responding to this hormone, causing high blood glucose levels.
- Insufficient insulin production: When the pancreas cannot produce enough to keep sugar levels under control.
- Genetic factors y family background of type 2 diabetes.
In addition, other factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, a diet rich in sugars and refined carbohydrates, and certain conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase the risk.
Factors riesgo
Some population groups are more likely to develop prediabetes due to certain characteristics, such as:
- Age: The risk increases after age 45.
- Race and ethnic background: People of Hispanic, African-American and Asian origin have a higher incidence.
- Obesity: Especially when fat accumulates in the abdominal area.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity.
- High blood pressure and cholesterol: Both factors are strongly related to blood sugar problems.
Symptoms of prediabetes
In most cases, prediabetes does not present any specific symptoms, which makes it difficult to detect early. However, some signs may indicate a problem:
- Excessive thirst.
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained tiredness or weakness.
- Unexplained weight gain or loss.
- Darkening of the skin in areas such as the neck, armpits, and elbows (acanthosis nigricans).
Diagnostic tests
Various clinical tests are used to diagnose prediabetes:
- Fasting glucose test: A glucose reading between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): This involves measuring glucose levels two hours after consuming a sugary drink; values of 140 to 199 mg/dL indicate prediabetes.
- Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c): This test measures the average blood glucose over the past 2-3 months. A percentage between 5,7% and 6,4% confirms the condition.
Complications related to prediabetes
If left unchecked, prediabetes can lead to serious health problems:
- Type 2 diabetes: Increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney damage.
- Nerve damage (neuropathy): Resulting from high glucose levels.
- Loss of vision: Associated with diabetic retinopathy.
Measures to prevent and treat prediabetes
The good news is that prediabetes is reversible if significant changes are adopted. Key strategies include:
- Keep a healthy weight: A 7-10% weight loss can make a big difference.
- Follow a balanced diet: Including food rich in fiber such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: At least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity is recommended.
- Give up smoking: Smoking worsens insulin resistance.
- Periodic medical check-up: To monitor glucose levels and other indicators.
Understanding prediabetes gives us a unique opportunity to take control of our health before it's too late. Implementing healthy habits not only prevents type 2 diabetes, but also improves overall quality of life. It's critical to raise awareness about this condition so that more people can identify it and treat it effectively.