Some 38 percent of U.S. adults have prediabetes—and prevalence rises to nearly half among those over 65. But the good news is that diet and exercise can reverse or manage high blood sugar before it develops into full-blown diabetes, according to experts. Teresa Fung, adjunct professor of nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, was among those quoted in a Feb. 11 Boston Globe article focused on health tips for people with prediabetes.
The article recommended following an eating plan that emphasizes lean protein, vegetables, and moderate amounts of whole grains and fruit, such as the Mediterranean Diet. But because people’s bodies can respond differently to foods, Fung recommended using a continuous glucose monitor to help identify patterns. “Long-term, it’s continuous high blood glucose that is the problem,” Fung said. “Occasional spikes are not going to make a big difference. Next day, do better.”
Exercise is also important for keeping blood sugar in check, according to Fung. “Physical activity draws glucose from the blood and into cells and the muscles themselves to use for fuel,” she said. “The greater the intensity and duration, the more effective the activity will be at lowering blood glucose.”
Read the Boston Globe article: Hey, how’s your A1C?
