As everyone makes their way through November, many are in full holiday mode, whether it be shopping, decorating, or eating. While all of that is important, so is the health and happiness of everyone. This is also a good time to remember that November is National Diabetes awareness month. Some people live with it every day, while others may be going undiagnosed. Read on to learn more about what causes diabetes, the signs and symptoms of prediabetes, and how early intervention, even during the holidays is crucial.

Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems

Prediabetes is a serious health condition where one’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 3 U.S. adults have prediabetes, but the majority of people don’t know they have it.

If a person has been diagnosed with diabetes, the body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use the insulin it makes as well as it should.

Signs and Symptoms of Prediabetes:

• Being overweight
• Being 45 years or older
• Having a parent, brother, or sister with type 2 diabetes
• Being physically active less than 3 times a week
• Ever having gestational diabetes
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome

Early intervention:

• Yearly physicals and bloodwork to check sugar levels
• Move more: Try to be active at least 3 days a week
• Small changes to eating and drinking habits by incorporating fruits, vegetables, and more water
• Lose weight and keep it off (if overweight)
• Seek support from family, friends, or other means of professional groups.