November is National Diabetes Awareness month, and unfortunately diabetes has become an epidemic for Americans young and old. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent type 2 diabetes, even if you already have prediabetes.
Prediabetes occurs when the cells in your body don’t respond normally to insulin. The purpose of insulin is to let blood sugar into your cells to be used as energy. When your body doesn’t respond normally, your pancreas makes more insulin, and eventually can’t keep up with production. This causes your blood sugar to rise and increase your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Luckily, being aware of your health and noticing signs and symptoms can circumvent a diabetes diagnosis. If you are overweight, 45+ years old, have a close relative with diabetes, are physically active less than three times a week, or suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome, it may be wise to consult your doctor about a blood sugar test. Getting into the habit of exercising moderately for at least 150 minutes a week can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by as much as 58%. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the best time to prevent type 2 diabetes is now.