Prediabetes is a diagnosis of risk for diabetes, which is a metabolism disorder in which the body cannot regulate insulin. This results in unhealthy levels of glucose in the blood. If a person has prediabetes, their blood glucose levels are high, but not considered high enough to merit a diabetes diagnosis.
A prediabetes diagnosis should be taken seriously, as it is advanced warning of a preventable serious disease. Unless diet and lifestyle changes are made, prediabetes can develop into type 2 diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association reports that some people may not show any signs of prediabetes other than a higher than normal blood glucose level. However, these five signs have been associated with a prediabetes diagnoses and may merit the advice of a physician:
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1. Increased thirst and urination: When insulin levels are not being regulated, the kidneys have to work overtime to remove glucose from the bloodstream. This causes increased urination, which then causes dehydration and excessive thirst.
2. Weight gain: A common sign of prediabetes is unexplained weight gain even when eating habits have remained the same. In addition, increased exercise may have no effect on weight loss. Insulin is the hormone that is released by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar, which is converted into energy. If the body has become insulin resistant, blood sugar cannot be used as energy and is converted to fat by the liver instead.
3. Unexplained fatigue: Fatigue that is not due to a lack of sleep, poor nutrition, excessive stress, or other illnesses
may be a sign of prediabetes. According to Natural Health Advisory, "The experience of fatigue and other low blood sugar symptoms 2-4 hours after a high-carb meal may be a warning sign that you have prediabetes." Further, this unexplained fatigue is a "classic sign of what is known as reactive hypoglycemia and an early symptom of the prediabetes-related condition known as insulin resistance."
4. Dark patches on the skin: This symptom, called Acanthosis Nigricans, "is seen in both men and women. It is most common in those who are overweight, have darker skin, and have diabetes or
prediabetic conditions," reports Healthline.
5. Belly fat: While this is not a symptom of prediabetes, the presence of excess belly fat in conjunction with other symptoms may be a warning sign.
According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, "Some experts believe obesity, especially excess fat around the waist, is a primary cause of insulin resistance." In addition, "studies have shown that belly fat produces hormones and other substances that can cause serious health problems such as insulin resistance, high blood pressure, imbalanced cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease."
This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.
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