The connection with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
Insulin resistance may be present before glucose reaches the diabetes range. Prediabetes and diabetes are defined using established glucose measurements and clinical criteria. Tiredness after meals or weight gain alone does not identify a person’s metabolic status.
Family history, age, body composition, activity and other factors affect risk. Assessment should also consider medicines and other conditions.
Which measurements are useful?
Blood glucose and HbA1c are commonly used when assessing diabetes risk. Additional investigations are appropriate in some cases. Blood pressure, lipids and overall cardiovascular risk also matter.
Mitochondria and metabolism are active research areas, but a commercial energy-metabolism test does not replace established diabetes diagnostics. Continuous glucose monitoring is not necessary for everyone without diabetes.
Changes that can be followed
Eating habits, activity adapted to ability, sleep and, when appropriate, weight management can form part of the plan. Medicines are relevant in some circumstances. The important part is an individual plan with follow-up of meaningful clinical measures.
Do not change prescribed diabetes treatment based on supplement advice. Marked thirst, frequent urination, weight loss or feeling significantly unwell need medical assessment for possible raised glucose.
Sources and further reading
This is general information and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
