Learning pre-diabetes facts help you lower your risk

Do you know whether you're at risk for developing diabetes?

For too many people, the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes comes as a shock. Perhaps they knew that they had a family history of the disease, but they just didn't think it would happen to them.

With more and more research being devoted to type 2 diabetes (typically diagnosed in mature adults), health care providers know more about how this disease develops and progresses than ever before. Now we know, for example, of a condition called pre-diabetes, which indicates early levels of insulin resistance and if left unchecked, can develop into type 2 diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, it is estimated that around 54 million Americans have pre-diabetes. You might be at risk if you are over forty, have a family history of diabetes, are overweight and/or do not participate in any physical activity.

It is very important to understand, however, that pre-diabetes can be reversed. Studies have shown that people with pre-diabetes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by up to 58 percent through changes to their lifestyle that include modest weight loss and regular exercise.

For some people, early intervention can actually "turn back the clock," returning elevated glucose levels back to normal and eliminating the risk of developing diabetes.

To reduce your risk, the ADA recommends getting your glucose levels screened by a physician if you meet any of the criteria listed above. Also, it is important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day and eat a healthy, balanced diet.

If you are overweight, getting back into your target weight zone will also greatly reduce your risk, but losing even 10 to 15 pounds can make a big difference.

To learn more about pre-diabetes, Bonner General Hospital is offering a class on the condition on Wednesday, Nov. 28. Cost is $20 and pre-registration is required. To register, please call (208) 255-3671.

Bonner General Hospital also offers the Diabetes Self-Management Education program, which includes an individual assessment with information on blood glucose monitoring, meter use and meal planning. Small-group classes taught by a registered nurse and dietician/certified diabetes educator offer education on a wide variety of topics.

For those living with diabetes, we offer insulin pump training, dietary consultations with a registered dietician, support groups, gestational (pregnancy-related) diabetes education, and community classes for pre-diabetes, diabetes refresher courses and on-site guided grocery shopping expeditions.

For more information on any of these programs, speak to your physician or call the Audrey Buck, RD, CDE at (208) 265-1116.