Managing Prediabetes: Key Tips for Blood Sugar Control

Q: Managing Prediabetes: Key Tips for Blood Sugar Control

Hello： Here are the responses to your questions：<br>1. <br>According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes published by the American Diabetes Association in 2010, the following criteria are used： (1) Fasting plasma glucose level >= 126 mg/dL after at least 8 hours; (2) 2-hour p

Precautions for Prediabetes

Dear Dr.
Hsiao,
I had a fasting blood glucose level of 127 mg/dL at the health examination center.
After two weeks of paying special attention to my diet and recording it daily, along with maintaining a routine of walking 10,000 steps three times a week, my blood glucose level was rechecked at the hospital and measured 110 mg/dL.
The doctor mentioned that I am in the "prediabetes" stage and advised me to continue with dietary control and exercise, suggesting that I should have another blood test in about 1 to 2 years.
However, I feel quite anxious about this.
Can dietary control and exercise really stabilize and continuously lower my blood glucose levels? Is waiting a year for the next test too long? Should I consider purchasing a blood glucose monitor for regular self-testing? Thank you.

karen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/12/29

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: Here are the responses to your questions:
1.
According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes published by the American Diabetes Association in 2010, the following criteria are used: (1) Fasting plasma glucose level >= 126 mg/dL after at least 8 hours; (2) 2-hour plasma glucose level >= 200 mg/dL during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT); (3) HbA1c >= 6.5%; (4) Clinical symptoms of diabetes such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss, with a random plasma glucose level >= 200 mg/dL.
Please note that criteria 1, 2, and 3 must be met on two separate occasions for a diagnosis.
2.
Therefore, your subsequent fasting blood glucose level of 110 mg/dL, which falls between 100-125 mg/dL, indicates an increased risk of diabetes, previously referred to as prediabetes.
At this stage, it is generally recommended to implement dietary control, moderate exercise, weight management, and reduce the intake of high-fat, high-sugar, and high-calorie foods.
Follow-up testing should be conducted after a period of time, although there is no set standard for the interval; it is determined by the clinical judgment of the physician.
If considering changes in HbA1c, it often requires about 6-12 weeks or more.
3.
The use of a blood glucose meter is generally recommended for diabetic patients, especially those on insulin therapy.
For the general population or those at increased risk for diabetes, there is no strong recommendation for use, but it is not discouraged either.
4.
Please discuss further with your family physician for more in-depth information.

Reply Date: 2010/12/29

More Info

Managing prediabetes is crucial for preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes, and it sounds like you are already taking significant steps in the right direction. Your recent blood sugar readings indicate that you are in the prediabetes range, with a fasting blood glucose level of 127 mg/dl, which is above the normal range but below the threshold for diabetes. The follow-up reading of 110 mg/dl shows that your efforts in dietary management and exercise are having a positive impact.

Key Tips for Blood Sugar Control
1. Dietary Management:
- Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of refined carbohydrates and sugars, which can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

- Monitor portion sizes and try to eat smaller, more frequent meals to help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

- Consider working with a registered dietitian who can help you create a personalized meal plan that aligns with your health goals.

2. Regular Physical Activity:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. This can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.

- Incorporate strength training exercises at least twice a week, as building muscle can also aid in blood sugar control.

3. Weight Management:
- If you are overweight, even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of your body weight can significantly improve blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

4. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels:
- While your doctor suggested waiting 1-2 years for a follow-up blood test, it may be beneficial to monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently, especially if you notice any symptoms of high blood sugar (such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or fatigue).

- Purchasing a blood glucose meter can be a useful tool for self-monitoring. Regular checks can help you understand how your diet and exercise affect your blood sugar levels, allowing for timely adjustments.

5. Regular Check-Ups:
- While your doctor may have recommended a follow-up in 1-2 years, it’s important to stay proactive about your health. Consider scheduling check-ups every 6 months to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your management plan.

- Discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider, as they can offer tailored advice based on your individual health status.

6. Stress Management and Sleep:
- Chronic stress and poor sleep can negatively impact blood sugar levels. Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine.

- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, as sleep deprivation can lead to insulin resistance.

Conclusion
Your proactive approach to managing your prediabetes through diet and exercise is commendable and can indeed lead to improved blood sugar control. While it is possible to stabilize and even lower your blood sugar levels with lifestyle changes, regular monitoring and follow-up with your healthcare provider are essential. If you feel uncertain about the recommended follow-up period, do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with your doctor. They may adjust your monitoring schedule based on your individual risk factors and progress. Remember, managing prediabetes is a journey, and staying informed and engaged in your health is key to success.

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