Prediabetes: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Tag: diabetes-and-cgm

Published: July 28, 2026

Last Updated: July 28, 2026

Summary

Prediabetes is a common but often undiagnosed condition affecting over 115 million U.S. adults. It occurs when blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

Nearly 115 million U.S. adults have prediabetes—and as many as 8 in 10 don’t know it, according to the CDC.

Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. While it may sound less serious, it can be an important early warning and an opportunity to take action.

Left untreated, prediabetes can increase your risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke

The good news? With the right lifestyle changes, many people can delay — or even prevent — type 2 diabetes.

Prediabetes happens when your body has trouble using insulin effectively, which can lead to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels over time.

Understanding your numbers and tracking changes can help you feel more informed and prepared to take next steps with your provider.

Blood Sugar Levels Explained

• Normal fasting blood glucose: 70–99 mg/dL
• Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL
• Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

Many providers also use the A1C test, which reflects your average blood sugar over 2–3 months:

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

Not familiar with mg/dL? You’re not alone — A1C is often an easier way to understand long-term blood sugar trends.

Anyone can develop prediabetes, but certain factors increase your risk. According to the NIH and CDC, you may be more likely to develop prediabetes if you:

• Are overweight or have obesity
• Are 45 or older
• Have a family history of diabetes
• Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy
• Eat a diet high in processed foods, red meat, or sugary drinks
• Are physically inactive
• Have high blood pressure or high triglycerides
• Have low HDL (“good”) cholesterol
• Have obstructive sleep apnea
• Use or are exposed to tobacco
• Are Black, Hispanic, American Indian, or Asian American

At Home Care Delivered, we understand that managing your health can feel overwhelming, especially when changes happen gradually and without clear symptoms. That’s why we focus on helping individuals access the supplies and support they need to feel confident and in control of their health journey.

Prediabetes often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is so important.

However, some people may develop:

• Darkened skin in areas like the neck, underarms, or groin (a condition called acanthosis nigricans)

If prediabetes progresses to diabetes, symptoms may include:

• Increased thirst or hunger
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Unintentional weight loss

Because symptoms are often silent, screening is key. Your healthcare provider may recommend testing based on your:

• Age
• Risk factors
• Family history
• Overall health
• Common Tests for Prediabetes include:
• Fasting blood glucose test
• A1C test
• Glucose tolerance test
• Random plasma glucose test

If you’re concerned about your blood sugar, don’t hesitate to ask your provider about testing. Early detection makes a big difference.

In many cases, yes.

Prediabetes doesn’t have to progress to diabetes. With consistent lifestyle changes, many people are able to bring their blood sugar levels back into a normal range.

How to Prevent Prediabetes from Becoming Diabetes

If you’ve been told you have prediabetes, taking small, consistent steps can support your long-term health. It’s always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider about what approach is right for you.

Here are some changes that may help support healthy blood sugar levels over time:

1. Focus on Balanced Eating
Choose foods that help keep blood sugar more stable, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins like chicken or fish
• Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts

Try to limit sugary drinks, highly processed foods, and refined carbohydrates when possible.

Tip: Small changes over time can be easier to maintain.

2. Get Moving

Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively.

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
• Walking is a great place to start
• Build consistency before intensity

3. Lose a Small Amount of Weight

Even modest weight loss can make a big impact.

• Losing 5–7% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes
• Work with your provider to find a safe, sustainable plan

4. Take Medication if Prescribed

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your provider may recommend medication.

• Take medications exactly as directed
• Continue lifestyle changes alongside treatment

5. Monitor Your Blood Sugar

• Tracking your blood glucose can help you better understand how your daily habits impact your numbers.

Monitoring at home gives you insight into how your diet, activity, and routine affect your numbers. For some individuals, using tools like traditional glucose monitors or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can make it easier to spot patterns and stay informed between provider visits.

If making lifestyle changes feels overwhelming, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to do it on your own.

The CDC and American Diabetes Association offer the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP). This evidence-based program provides:

• Structured lifestyle coaching
• Nutrition and activity guidance
• Support from others with similar goals

Learn more and take the risk test: https://doihaveprediabetes.org/reverse-prediabetes/

Many programs may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance.

Prediabetes can be a warning, but it can also be a chance to take meaningful steps forward. With the right knowledge, support, and tools, many individuals are able to better understand and manage their blood sugar over time.

At Home Care Delivered, we’re here to help simplify the process. We work with your provider and health plan to help you access high-quality diabetes supplies that fit your lifestyle.

We can help with:

• Traditional glucose monitors
• Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
• Ongoing supply support and reordering

We’ll check your insurance to see if you qualify and work with your health plan to help minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Visit Diabetes CGM - Home Care Delivered to learn more or get started today.

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Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”