Diabetes Prevention

Diabetes Prevention Overview

Through enhanced awareness and early intervention, patients at risk of diabetes can take steps to prevent or even delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Preventing diabetes involves being proactive in adopting a healthy lifestyle. Small, practical choices that reduce your risk of developing the condition can lead to big, life-changing results. The diabetes care and education team at Hattiesburg Clinic will work with you to develop a plan and establish goals that are tailored to you and your unique needs.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but are not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. The pancreas is responsible for producing a hormone called insulin that permits blood sugar into cells to be used for energy. With prediabetes, the cells do not typically respond to insulin, causing the pancreas to make more insulin to get the cells to respond. The pancreas eventually is unable to keep up and an individual’s blood sugar rises, leading to prediabetes.

Individuals who have prediabetes often are not even aware, as they may not have any symptoms. Prediabetes can increase patients’ risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Through evidence-based diabetes education and prevention programs, patients can reverse prediabetes and even lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

How can you prevent diabetes?

Strategies for diabetes prevention may include the following:

Maintaining a healthy weight –Individuals considered overweight are at a greater risk of developing other conditions in addition to type 2 diabetes. Being overweight can also lead to unhealthy cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.
Maintaining a balanced diet – Patients should focus on eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. They should also limit their intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates and foods high in fat.
Engaging in regular exercise – Patients should aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes four to five times a week. Exercise may include brisk walking, cycling or swimming along with some strength training.
Staying hydrated – Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important. Patients should also limit sugary beverages like soda and fruit juice.
Limiting alcoholic beverages – Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Should you choose to drink alcohol, moderation is key.
Quitting smoking – Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your organs and can cause high blood pressure as well as type 2 diabetes. Giving up smoking can improve your overall health and lower your risk of complications related to the condition.
Getting plenty of rest – It is important to get a sufficient amount of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep habits can impact your blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
Managing stress – Stress can contribute to unhealthy lifestyle habits and increase the risk of developing diabetes. Practice stress-reduction techniques to help control your stress levels.

How can you manage diabetes?

Patients who are diagnosed with prediabetes or who are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes can practice the following strategies to prevent further health complications:

Schedule regular health check-ups: It is important to maintain regularly scheduled visits with your health care provider. Early detection and management of diabetes can help prevent the onset of other related conditions.

Monitor blood sugar levels: Monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly is important for self-management. This can help you track your progress and allows you to take necessary precautions should your levels start to rise.

Choose Hattiesburg Clinic for Diabetes Prevention

Individuals who incorporate lifestyle changes and take preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. If you are concerned you may be at risk for diabetes and want to learn more about prevention strategies, consult with your health care provider. The diabetes care and education specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic are here to help patients enhance their awareness of diabetes and learn about the preventative measures they can take to reduce their risk of developing the condition. Our comprehensive program is designed to help patients learn life skills to proactively improve their health outcome.