Comprehensive indicators of prediabetes from head to toe – and how to turn it around

Type 2 diabetes is common across the UK, and millions live with the condition. But, there are ways to prevent and even 'reverse' the problem before it gets any worse if you have been told by a doctor you are prediabetic.

Prediabetes, also known as non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, is a condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It's a serious health condition that puts you at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

Prediabetes frequently presents no noticeable symptoms, which can make it challenging to identify before it progresses to diabetes. Nevertheless, there are several warning signs to be aware of that may indicate a potential problem.

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are some indicators all over your body that might help you work out what to tell a doctor. The list includes:

Increased thirst and frequent urination: When blood sugar levels are high, the kidneys work harder to filter excess glucose.

Fatigue: Fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause fatigue.

Blurred vision: Changes in blood sugar levels can cause blurred vision.

Increased hunger: Also known as polyphagia, this is a common symptom of prediabetes.

Unexplained weight loss: Even if you're eating more, this can be an early warning sign of prediabetes.

Slow healing of cuts and wounds: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, impairing blood circulation.

Darkened skin: This can appear on the neck, armpits, and groin.

Skin tags: While harmless, having many skin tags may be a sign of type 2 diabetes.

The precise reason behind prediabetes remains unclear, but it seems that genetics and family background significantly influence its development. The only method to determine whether you have prediabetes is to undergo a blood test conducted by your physician.

If you become aware of the condition and make sufficient lifestyle changes, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This involves losing weight, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking and cutting out sugars. Other things you can do are:

• Avoiding excessive intake of added sugars by limiting sugary beverages, cakes, cookies, candy and snacks
• Limiting portion sizes of refined carbohydrate foods such as white bread, white rice and white pasta
• Incorporating fibre to reach a goal of 25 to 30 grams per day by eating a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Limiting saturated and trans fats by choosing lean protein and low-fat dairy

The objective is to regulate blood sugar levels to the point where medication is no longer necessary. This condition is commonly referred to as Type 2 diabetes remission, which occurs when your blood sugar levels fall below the diabetic threshold, allowing you to discontinue the use of medications such as insulin.

No time limit applies to making this major change. According to Diabetes UK, experts are aware of people who have managed to put their diabetes into remission decades after being diagnosed.

If you need help and support with this process, there is a handy guide on the Diabetes UK website. You can find it online here.