Pre diabetes is the stage where the blood sugar levels are above normal but below the level where it can be conclusively called diabetes. At the same time, it must be understood that pre diabetes often leads to full fledged diabetes. There really are no physical symptoms that can tell that you fall in the pre-diabetic category. However, certain factors are predisposing factors and an indication that you may have pre diabetes with the possibility of developing diabetes in the future.

The only way out is to get a check up done once in a while so as to rule out pre diabetes. Consult your doctor about the risks of pre diabetes and diabetes if you are over 45 years of age as well as overweight. Even those who are below 45 years but are overweight stand the risk of having this stage can progress into diabetes.

If you suffer from high blood pressure you could develop pre diabetes. Along with this if you have low HDL and high triglycerides you stand similar risks. A family history of diabetes and gestational diabetes are high risk factors for this stage. Women who have had large babies, over 9 pounds in weight are also susceptible to the problem.

At the same time certain races are more prone to developing the stage and finally diabetes. Ethnic and minority groups like, African American, American

Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American/Latino are high-risk groups.

Now for the good news, if you happen to be in the stage, you can still control your blood sugar levels to prevent it from developing into diabetes. However, you will have to be sincere in your efforts because it takes just a little negligence for blood sugar levels to shoot up, especially if you fall in the risk category.

The most important thing is to make some dietary changes. Eat healthy. Shun sugary foods while opting for whole grain and sugar free foods. If you are into snacking, make healthful snacks a part of your life. Another important factor that will determine whether or not your pre-diabetes will develop into diabetes, is the amount of food that you eat. Cut down on the quantity of food that you put in your plate. In this respect a useful tip is to drink a glass of water a short while before eating so that you are not ravenous when you begin your meal. Also, try not to shop for food when you are hungry. It has been reported that shopping on an empty stomach makes you go for foods that elevate blood sugar levels.

Exercising is crucial in preventing this stage from moving into the diabetes stage, so make it an integral part of your lifestyle. Remember, that in general any measures that tend to lead to weight gain will also increase your chances of becoming a diabetes patient from a pre diabetes stage person. Look to lose weight and avoid sugar by making dietary and lifestyle changes and you can surely preempt pre diabetes from becoming diabetes.