SC Wisconsin News

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, over 135 million people in the United States have diabetes or prediabetes. Alarmingly, one in five adults with these conditions are unaware of their status. Diabetes is a chronic condition marked by elevated blood glucose levels, potentially leading to severe health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney failure, or limb loss. Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet at diabetic levels.

Alisha Natzke, a Family Nurse Practitioner at Aspirus Health, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between prediabetes and diabetes: “Think of prediabetes as a warning sign; you don’t have diabetes yet but without making lifestyle changes people can progress into Type 2 diabetes.”

Risk factors for developing diabetes include being overweight, having a family history of Type 2 diabetes, engaging in physical activity less than three times per week, and belonging to certain ethnic groups that have higher risks for Type 2 diabetes.

However, there is hope for those with prediabetes or risk factors through effective lifestyle programs that can delay or prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Natzke advises starting with increased physical activity: “Start by increasing your physical activity; it does not have to be perfect.” She also recommends focusing on meal choices and avoiding foods high in sugar and carbohydrates.

To reduce the risk of developing diabetes or prediabetes:

1. Increase physical activity gradually after consulting a doctor.

2. Choose foods wisely by controlling portion sizes and balancing them with vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

3. Regularly check blood sugar levels.

4. Educate yourself about managing type 2 diabetes through certified educators.

5. Schedule regular checkups with your primary care clinician.

Natzke warns about complications from unmanaged diabetes: “Complications from diabetes can range from numbness and tingling to the potential loss of limbs.” Elevated blood sugar can damage small blood vessels affecting kidneys and eyes.

For more information on managing these conditions or getting tested for them, individuals are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers or visit Aspirus' website at aspirus.org/diabetes-care.