Lifestyle Recommendations for Prediabetic Patients

Primary care physician Dr. Rex Mahnensmith has provided patient-centered treatment and preventative care at hospitals and medical centers in North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. In his current role as an internal medicine physician at StayWell Health Center in Waterbury, Connecticut, Dr. Rex Mahnensmith administers diagnostic tests for common metabolic conditions such as prediabetes. 

Patients with elevated baseline blood sugar levels are categorized as prediabetic. However, they are also at increased risk of developing heart disease, organ failure, and other chronic conditions. Blood sugar can often be reduced to normal levels through the following lifestyle changes:

- Lose weight. Prediabetic patients who are overweight or obese can reduce their likelihood of developing diabetes by losing as little as 5 percent of their body weight. This type of weight loss is achievable by starting a regular exercise routine and limiting high-fat foods.

- Schedule follow-ups. Developing healthy habits can take a lot of willpower and guidance. Patients should work closely with their physicians to monitor their progress through quarterly or bi-annual check-ups. 

- Get rest. Poor sleep quality is often associated with health conditions that exacerbate prediabetes, including obesity and impaired insulin production. In addition to establishing a healthy sleep routine and limiting caffeine before bedtime, patients should be screened for disorders such as sleep apnea.

Five Life Habits That Make a Difference for Health and Survival

A graduate of Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Rex Mahnensmith is a professor emeritus at the university, where he began teaching a clinical track more than 15 years ago. In addition, he leverages his training and experience to serve as internal medicine physician at StayWell Health Center in Waterbury, Connecticut. Also an author, Dr. Rex Mahnensmith has written a number of articles, including a piece titled Five Life Habits That Make A Difference for Health and Survival.

Public health researchers have published five habits that correlate to poor health: cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, inadequate exercise, obesity, and inadequate sleep. When it comes to the first habit, doctors recommend complete abstinence from tobacco, as toxic chemicals irritate respiratory tissues and can lead to various forms of cancer. Physicians also recommend abstinence from alcohol or consuming only moderately on occasion to avoid damage to the liver and other organs.

In terms of exercise, five days of rigorous exercise per week can help burn calories and strengthen the heart, in addition to improving circulation and reducing stress. Finally, doctors recommend maintaining a body mass index of less than 25 kg. of weight per square meter of height and getting at least seven hours of sleep per night.