Age: 45 years or older
Weight: Overweight (BMI 25 )
Family history: Either parent or any sibling with
history of
type 2 diabetes
Activity: Sedentary lifestyle
Previously identified pre-diabetes (IFG or IGT)
Personal medical history: Hypertensive ( 140/90 mmHg)
History of gestational diabetes or delivery of a baby
weighing greater than 9 pounds
HDL cholesterol level 35 mg/dl and/or a triglyceride
level 250 mg/dl
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
History of vascular disease
Silent Symptoms: Many people with pre-diabetes
have no symptoms. However, you might experience:
Unusual thirst
Frequent urination
Blurred vision
Fatigue with no apparent cause
Additionally, African-Americans, Latino-Americans,
Native Americans,
Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders have a higher incidence of type 2
diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association, if
you’re 45 or older,
especially if your BMI is 25 or more, screening for pre-diabetes is
indicated. If you’re less than 45 years, but you’re overweight and have
any of the above risk factors, testing is recommended.
Take Steps to Avoid Diabetes
According to the CDC, lifestyle modification, namely a healthy meal
plan and a fitness plan, should be the first choice to prevent or delay
diabetes, because of the benefits of weight loss and physical activity.
Set a goal of “modest” weight loss (5–10 percent of body weight) and at
least 30 minutes of daily physical activity. Of course, this
recommendation is appropriate for all overweight and/or sedentary
people, because it’s healthy for everyone, not only those trying to
delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.
Proper diet is an integral part of managing diabetes.
If you're
ready to take control -- and maybe lose a few pounds along the way --
eDiets can help. Click here
to complete a free profile and get started with our Living with Type 2
Diabetes plan (or choose from 20 other weight loss plans).
eDiets Chief Nutritionist Susan L. Burke is a
Registered and
Licensed Dietitian, and a Certified Diabetes Educator who specializes
in both general and diabetes-related weight management.