A diagnosis of pre-diabetes can be confusing and scary but what is pre-Diabetes? A diagnosis of pre-diabetes means that your blood sugar levels are higher than what your doctor considers normal. This is usually diagnosed with an A1C reading. An A1C is a representation of a 2-3 month average of blood sugars. Normal A1C values are less than 5.7%, Pre-diabetes range is 5.7-6.4%, and diabetes is diagnosed with an A1C of 6.5% and above.
There are many things that increase our risk for diagnosis of pre-diabetes including but not limited to: increasing age, being overweight or physically inactive, having a parent or sibling with diabetes, being Native American, for women being diagnosed with poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or a dark velvety rash on the back of the neck or elbows.
If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes there is hope! A referral from your doctor to see a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) can help you understand your diagnosis, prevent a progression to diabetes, and help you to make small lifestyle changes to lose weight and prioritize your health. RDNs are specially trained to help you set and meet lifestyle goals to help you lead your healthiest life. The RDNs at Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa look forward to meeting with you!