If your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis, you’re probably in the prediabetes zone. It’s a wake‑up call, not a death sentence. Most people don’t even know they have it until a routine test flags a number. The good news? You can turn the tide with a few everyday changes.
Prediabetes means your fasting glucose or A1C is higher than the healthy range, but still below the diabetic threshold. In the US, a fasting glucose of 100‑125 mg/dL or an A1C of 5.7‑6.4% qualifies. At this stage, your body’s insulin isn’t working as efficiently, and the pancreas is trying to keep up. If you keep ignoring it, you’ll likely cross into type 2 diabetes within five years.
Common signs are subtle: a bit more thirst, frequent urination, or slow‑healing cuts. Often there are none at all. That’s why regular screening—especially if you’re over 45, overweight, or have a family history—is key.
1. Move more. You don’t need a marathon. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity a week—walking, cycling, or dancing. Even short bursts, like a 10‑minute brisk walk after meals, improve insulin sensitivity.
2. Trim the carbs. Focus on whole grains, veggies, and lean protein. Cutting sugary drinks and refined snacks can drop your A1C by 0.5% in just a few months.
3. Watch the weight. Losing 5‑10% of body weight often normalizes blood sugar. Small habits—using a smaller plate, swapping soda for water—add up.
4. Sleep and stress matter. Aim for 7‑8 hours of sleep and try relaxation techniques (deep breathing, short yoga sessions). Poor sleep and chronic stress raise cortisol, which can push glucose up.
5. Consider medication. Doctors sometimes prescribe Metformin for prediabetes, especially if you’re under 60, overweight, or have a history of gestational diabetes. Newer options like Sitagliptin are also being studied, but lifestyle is always the first line.
6. Regular check‑ups. Re‑test your fasting glucose or A1C every 6‑12 months. Tracking progress keeps you motivated and helps your doctor fine‑tune advice.
Every step you take lowers the odds of moving to full‑blown diabetes. Remember, prediabetes is a reversible condition—you just have to act now.
Need more detailed advice? Check out our articles on buying Metformin online in the UK, how Sitagliptin works for diabetes, and other medication guides. They give practical tips on safe purchasing, dosage, and what to discuss with your doctor.
Take the first step today: schedule a blood test, add a short walk to your routine, and start swapping out one sugary drink. Your future self will thank you.
Tackling prediabetes isn't limited to metformin. Dig into science-backed lifestyle changes and new meds that help you take control early, no prescription required.