Can we prevent diabetes?

Prediabetes might be called border-line diabetic.  This person’s blood glucose (sugar) levels are high but not high enough to be called diabetes.  This person is at risk for developing diabetes and its complications.  But wait—there are some things this person can do to prevent diabetes from developing.  According to the American Diabetes Association website, “Research shows that you can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes by 58% by losing 7% of your body weight (or 15 pounds if you weigh 200 pounds) and exercising moderately (such as brisk walking 30 minutes a day, five days a week.”  For more information about preventing diabetes, see the website http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/prevention/pre-diabetes/pre-diabetes-faqs.html

What about after you have been diagnosed with diabetes?  At that point, there are lifestyle changes you can add to your life to help control your blood sugar levels and prevent the complications. Talk with your doctor, attend diabetes education classes and learn how to protect your health from this serious illness.