Health topic · Metabolic health
Prediabetes and insulin resistance
Prediabetes means blood sugar is higher than usual but not in the diabetes range. Learn how it is detected, why it matters and what lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
Overview
NIDDK explains that insulin resistance happens when cells respond less well to insulin, so the body needs more of it to keep blood glucose in range. Over time glucose can rise into the prediabetes range.
Why it matters
Prediabetes often has no symptoms. NIDDK notes it raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke, which is why it is usually found through blood tests rather than symptoms.
How it is detected
HbA1c and fasting glucose are the tests most commonly used. The USPSTF recommends screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in adults aged 35 to 70 who are overweight or have obesity.
What helps
NIDDK describes weight loss, regular physical activity and healthier eating as effective ways to lower the chance of developing type 2 diabetes.
Factors that can affect the result
- Excess weight
- Physical inactivity
- Family history
- Age
- Some medicines
Questions people commonly ask
- Does prediabetes always become diabetes?
- No. Lifestyle changes can lower the risk, and some people return to normal glucose levels.
- Is fasting insulin a standard diagnostic test?
- It is not used to diagnose prediabetes in standard guidelines; HbA1c and glucose are.
Related biomarkers
Related tests
Related topics
Understand your biomarkers in context
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- Insulin Resistance & Prediabetes. NIDDK.
- Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: Screening. USPSTF, 2021.