Prediabetes

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition

Prediabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar level is higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. Still, the stakes are high. If you have prediabetes, the long-term damage of diabetes — especially to your heart and circulatory system — may already be starting.

In the United States, 54 million adults have prediabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Without intervention, prediabetes is likely to become type 2 diabetes in as little as 10 years.

There's good news, however. Progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes isn't inevitable. With healthy lifestyle changes — such as eating healthy foods, including physical activity in your daily routine and maintaining a healthy weight — you may be able to bring your blood sugar level back to normal.

Symptoms