The Dangers of Prediabetes
Stopping Prediabetes From Becoming Type 2 Diabetes continued...
Wade Heyer, 51, a real estate broker in Shoreline, Wash., was struggling with prediabetes when he joined the program. At 265 pounds, he had a family history of diabetes and was taking medications for high cholesterol and high blood pressure. He also had sleep apnea and gout. "There's no question in my mind that I was heading for diabetes," he says.
A year after participating in the diabetes prevention program, Heyer has lost 50 pounds and is on the brink of quitting his medications. He hasn't used a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine while sleeping in months. He rides his bike to and from work daily, goes to the Y at least once a day, and takes a spin class three times a week. He also eats lots of fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. His prediabetes is gone -- and so is the threat of type 2 diabetes. "It's been an amazing transformation," Heyer says. "I can't tell you how good I feel. I even handle stress better."
Is This Normal? Get the Facts Fast!
Answer:
0-69
70-130
131+
Your level is currently
If the level is below 70 and you are experiencing symptoms such as shaking, sweating or difficulty thinking, you will need to raise the number immediately. A quick solution is to eat a few pieces of hard candy or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. Recheck your numbers again in 15 minutes to see if the number has gone up. If not, repeat the steps above or call your doctor.
People who experience hypoglycemia several times in a week should call their health care provider. It's important to monitor your levels each day so you can make sure your numbers are within the range. If you are pregnant always consult with your health care provider.
Congratulations on taking steps to manage your health.
However, it's important to continue to track your numbers so that you can make lifestyle changes if needed. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Your level is high if this reading was taken before eating. Aim for 70-130 before meals and less than 180 two hours after meals.
Even if your number is high, it's not too late for you to take control of your health and lower your blood sugar.
One of the first steps is to monitor your levels each day. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Did You Know Your Lifestyle Choices
Affect Your Blood Sugar?
Use the Blood Glucose Tracker to monitor
how well you manage your blood sugar over time.
This tool is not intended for women who are pregnant.
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