What does it mean to be 'pre-diabetic'?

I've been hearing the term 'pre-diabetic' more often these days, and I'm curious - what exactly does it mean to be in this stage? Is it reversible, or are we looking at a diabetes diagnosis down the line? I'd love to hear your thoughts and insights!

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Being 'pre-diabetic' means that your blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not quite high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It's often called 'impaired glucose tolerance' or 'impaired fasting glucose'. The good news is that, in many cases, making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthier diet and increasing physical activity can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

It's important to note that prediabetes is a serious condition. Though not everyone with prediabetes will develop type 2 diabetes, many will if appropriate lifestyle changes are not made. Prediabetes can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke as well. Regular check-ups and monitoring of blood sugar levels, in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, can significantly reduce these risks.

Absolutely, prediabetes can be managed and even reversed with the right approach! Adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep also play crucial roles in managing prediabetes and overall health.