Pre-diabetes is the condition that is often seen before the onset of type II diabetes. This occurs when blood sugar levels are high, but not elevated enough to warrant a diagnosis of diabetes. There are 57 million people in the Unites States with pre-diabetes.

The normal range for fasting blood sugar is 100 mg/dL or less. If the blood sugar reaches 126 mg/dL during a fasting state the individual is considered to have diabetes. Pre-diabetes is marked by a blood sugar level between 100 and 125 mg/dL. People with pre-diabetes are at higher risk of heart disease and have a 1.5-fold risk of developing heart disease compared to people with normal blood sugar. People with diabetes have a 2- to 4-fold increased risk of heart disease. We now know that people with pre-diabetes can delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes through dietary and lifestyle changes. It is estimated that around 50 percent of those diagnosed with this condition, go on to develop type 2 diabetes at some point.

Physicians usually do not prescribe medication for pre-diabetes. The typical treatment is to decrease the controllable risk factors associated with diabetes such as body weight and physical activity level. Improved blood sugar levels may be achieved through a balanced diet and regular exercise. The recommendation is non-stop exercise for 30 minutes, at least five days a week. For those who have not maintained physical fitness it is important to consult with a physician before starting an exercise program.