The Difference Between Prediabetes and Diabetes
Prediabetes and diabetes are two medical conditions that affect the way the body processes sugar (glucose) from the food we eat. Though both conditions are related to high blood sugar levels, there are some key differences between prediabetes and diabetes.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is a condition where the blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. In prediabetes, the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, putting a person at risk of developing diabetes. People with prediabetes can still produce insulin, but not enough to keep their blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
Diabetes
Diabetes, on the other hand, is a condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. When the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels, it can cause a range of serious health problems, including heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney disease. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin, making it difficult for the body to regulate blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes usually occurs in childhood or early adulthood and requires life-long treatment with insulin injections or an insulin pump.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and usually occurs in adulthood. It is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and aging. In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. This type of diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen, but some individuals may also need medication or insulin.
Prediabetes and diabetes are both conditions that affect the way the body processes sugar, but there are key differences between the two. Prediabetes is a warning sign that the body is becoming less responsive to insulin, while diabetes is a serious disease where the body cannot produce enough insulin or the cells become resistant to insulin. If you have prediabetes, it is important to take steps to prevent the progression to diabetes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and losing weight if necessary. If you have diabetes, it is important to work closely with a registered dietitian to manage your condition and prevent any serious health problems.
