A recent study led by researchers at the University Hospital of Tübingen, Helmholtz Munich, and the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) has shed new light on the importance of blood sugar levels in managing prediabetes. The study found that individuals with prediabetes who normalized their blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes, but did not lose weight, still reduced their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 71%.
Key Findings
- Blood sugar level is more important than body weight: The study suggests that normalizing blood sugar levels is a more important goal than weight loss in preventing type 2 diabetes.
- Fat distribution is a decisive factor: The study found that individuals who normalized their blood sugar levels without losing weight had a lower percentage of abdominal fat, which is linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
- Lifestyle changes can be effective without weight loss: The study found that lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels, regardless of weight loss.
Implications
The study’s findings have implications for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. They suggest that healthcare providers should focus on blood sugar control and fat distribution patterns, rather than just weight loss, when working with patients with prediabetes. By incorporating target glycemic values into practice guidelines, healthcare providers can help patients with prediabetes achieve optimal blood sugar control and reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, in managing prediabetes and preventing type 2 diabetes. By focusing on blood sugar control and fat distribution patterns, individuals with prediabetes can reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes, regardless of weight loss.