Prediabetes Doesn't Have to Become Diabetes.

You get your blood work back. Your blood sugar is a little high. Then your provider says a word you may not know: prediabetes.

Now what?

First, don't panic. Prediabetes does not mean you already have diabetes.

It means your blood sugar is higher than it should be. And your body may need some help.

Here's the good news: There are steps you can take to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

What Is Prediabetes?

Your body needs sugar for energy. That sugar is also called glucose.

When you eat, your body breaks down some of your food into sugar. The sugar moves into your blood.

Your body makes a hormone called insulin. Insulin helps move sugar from your blood into your cells.

Sometimes, your cells stop responding to insulin as well as they should.

Then more sugar can stay in your blood.

Over time, this may lead to prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

What Does Your A1C Number Mean?

One way to check your blood sugar is with an A1C test.

This blood test shows your average blood sugar over about three months.

Here is what the numbers mean for most adults who are not pregnant.

Your provider may also use a fasting blood sugar test.

A fasting blood sugar from 100 to 125 mg/dL is in the prediabetes range.

Your provider can explain what your own results mean.

Can You Have Prediabetes and Feel Fine?

Yes.

Many people with prediabetes do not feel sick.

You may have plenty of energy. You may feel like your usual self.

That's why blood tests can be helpful.

Prediabetes may be found during a routine health visit, even when you have no symptoms.

Does Prediabetes Always Become Diabetes?

No.

Some people with prediabetes never develop type 2 diabetes.

For others, blood sugar can rise over time.

Your risk depends on many things, including your health history, weight, activity, and blood sugar.

The sooner you know your risk, the sooner you can make a plan.

5 Steps That Can Help Lower Your Risk

1. Move Your Body More

You do not need a gym membership to start.

Walking counts. Dancing counts. Riding a bike counts.

A common goal is 150 minutes of activity each week.

That's about 30 minutes, five days a week.

You can start small and work your way up. Ask your provider what level of activity is safe for you.

2. Make Small Changes to Your Meals

You don't have to stop eating every food you love.

Start by making small changes.

• Drink water more often instead of sugary drinks.
• Add more vegetables to your meals.
• Choose foods with more fiber, like beans and whole grains.
• Include foods with protein, like eggs, fish, or beans.
• Pay attention to how much you eat and when you're full.

There is no single meal plan that works for everyone.

Your provider can help you make a plan that fits your health and your life.

3. Talk About Your Weight

For some adults who carry extra weight, losing a small amount can lower diabetes risk.

Research shows that losing about 5% to 7% of body weight can help people at high risk.

For someone who weighs 200 pounds, that's about 10 to 14 pounds.

Not everyone needs to lose weight. Your care plan should fit your body and your health needs.

4. Protect Your Sleep

Good sleep helps your body work as it should.

Try to keep a regular sleep schedule.

If you snore loudly, wake up tired, or often feel sleepy during the day, tell your provider.

A sleep problem may need more attention.

5. Keep Up With Your Checkups

You cannot always feel when your blood sugar is rising.

If you have prediabetes, your provider will usually check for diabetes at least once a year.

Some people may need testing more often.

Follow-up visits also give you time to ask questions and make changes to your plan.

Will You Need Medicine?

Not everyone with prediabetes needs medicine.

Healthy habits are an important part of care.

But some people have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes.

In some cases, a provider may recommend a medicine called metformin.

This may be helpful for certain adults at higher risk.

Your provider should explain the benefits, side effects, and other options before you start any medicine.

What If Your A1C Goes Back to Normal?

That's good progress.

Some people can lower their blood sugar enough to return to the normal range.

But that doesn't mean you should stop taking care of your health.

Your blood sugar can rise again over time.

Keeping up with healthy habits and follow-up care still matters.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

Your Health Is More Than One A1C Number

Blood sugar is only one part of your health.

Prediabetes can also be a reason to review your blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart health.

Good care means looking at the whole picture.

Your provider should help you understand what matters most for your health.

The Premier Approach

At Premier Advanced Practice Group, we believe prevention starts with understanding.

We take time to review your health history, explain your lab results, and talk about your goals.

Our care focuses on helping you make informed choices and build a plan you can follow.

Because you deserve more than being told to "eat better and exercise."

You deserve a conversation, a clear plan, and support along the way.

Evidence-Based Education

Medical Sources

This article was developed using recent clinical guidance. The language is written for everyday readers.

1. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. (2026). Prevention or Delay of Diabetes and Associated Comorbidities: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026. Diabetes Care. Read guidance
2. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. (2025). Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care. Read guidance
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Diabetes Testing. Read CDC guidance
4. American Medical Association. (2024). Prediabetes Identification and Management Protocol. View protocol