12 Simple Ways to Fight Prediabetes

Rhonda Hurwitz had three risk factors for developing prediabetes. The Chappaqua, New York, woman had gestational diabetes during both of her pregnancies, more than 20 years ago. That put her at higher risk for prediabetes, yet the condition didn't show up until she was in her 50s and about 15 pounds overweight. By then, both her age and her weight were also risk factors.

Anyone who is overweight and 45 or older should be tested for prediabetes, advises the American Diabetes Association. If you're in that age category and of normal weight, ask your doctor if testing would be appropriate.

Younger overweight women also might need testing if they have: a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides, had gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds. Those in ethnic groups with high risk (African American, Native American, Hispanic, Asian) also should talk with their health care providers.

"You need to know your risk status to take preventive steps," Dr. Albright says.

You’ll find a simple screening test to assess your prediabetes risk by clicking here.

After preliminary screening, laboratory tests of your fasting glucose level, oral glucose tolerance level and the A1C test will establish whether you are in the prediabetes zone or not. To find out the test result numbers that indicate you have impaired glucose levels, click here.

In addition to those glucose levels, the American Diabetes Association now advises that an A1C test, which does not require fasting, be used to identify prediabetes and diabetes. An A1C  range of 5.7 to 6.4 percent puts you in the prediabetes category (a diagnosis of diabetes is made when the A1C test score is 6.5 percent or higher.)