If you are diagnosed with prediabetes —an early form of the disease that can lead to Type 2 diabetes — you can treat the condition, and possibly even reverse it to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes, with the following lifestyle changes:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet — low in fat and cholesterol, high in fiber
- Lose weight — even a moderate weight loss of 10 to 15 pounds can make a huge difference; studies show a 5 to 10 percent reduction in body weight produced a 58 percent reduction in the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
- Quit smoking
- Treat high cholesterol
- Treat hypertension
These lifestyle changes can also help people at risk for prediabetes to prevent the onset of the disease, as well as prevent Type 2 diabetes and related conditions.
Find a San Diego Endocrinologist
To find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for a San Diego endocrinologist or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.
For More Diabetes Information
To find general information about diabetes, visit Diabetes Care in Adult Health or read the Diabetes News archive.