Type 2 diabetes and how to prevent it

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects millions of people whose bodies either don’t produce enough insulin or resist insulin. Without treatment, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious health implications.

Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they can be diagnosed with prediabetes. Routine physical exams and bloodwork can diagnose prediabetes and get people the care they need.

According to CDC, a fasting blood sugar level between 100-125 mg/dL (99 or lower is normal) is considered prediabetes. A level of 126 mg/DL or higher indicates diabetes. The following lifestyle changes can prevent prediabetes from turning into full-blown diabetes.

• Exercise and eat better.

• Manage stress.

• Quit smoking.

People who are overweight, have large waist sizes, are sedentary, and have a family history of type 2 diabetes should talk to their doctor about possibly being at risk for this disease.

—MetroCreativeConnection