Proactive Steps for Prevention
If you have been told you have prediabetes or have several risk factors, it’s not too late to take action. The same lifestyle changes used to manage diabetes are also incredibly effective at preventing or delaying its onset. Even small changes can make a huge difference.
Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight—just 5% to 7% of your body weight—can dramatically lower your risk. For a 200-pound person, that’s a loss of only 10 to 14 pounds.
Get Moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, like brisk walking, each week. That breaks down to just 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Eat a Plant-Forward Diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Cut back on processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods high in saturated and trans fats.
Get Regular Checkups: Talk to your doctor about your risk and get your blood sugar tested regularly. Early detection of prediabetes gives you a critical window to make changes and prevent the progression to full-blown diabetes.
