Are You on the Road to Diabetes? How to Catch It Early and Take Contro

April 21, 2025

You don’t wake up one day with type 2 diabetes—it often develops slowly, and there are warning signs along the way. The good news? You can take action before it becomes a diagnosis.

Here’s what to look for and how to take control:

Common Signs You May Be at Risk:

Constant fatigue
Increased thirst or frequent urination
Cravings or blood sugar crashes between meals leaving you sluggish
Weight gain around the belly
A family history of type 2 diabetes
Bloodwork showing elevated A1C or fasting glucose (even slightly! Your insulin levels go up years before your glucose but that is rarely tested.)

What You Can Do:

Get tested. Ask your doctor or dietitian to check your fasting glucose, A1C, and insulin levels. Even if you “feel fine,” numbers tell the full story.
Watch your carb quality. Not all carbs are bad—but choosing more minimally processed beans, oats, fruits, and potatoes over ultra-processed white bread and sweets makes a big difference.
Balance your plate. Include lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber with every meal to help regulate blood sugar.
Move your body. Regular activity—even walking 15–30 minutes a day—can help your body use insulin more efficiently.
Manage stress and sleep. Chronic stress and poor sleep raise cortisol, which can negatively impact blood sugar and insulin resistance.
Work with a dietitian. Nutrition guidance tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and labs makes all the difference.