Hidden sugar is a term we hear frequently in nutrition and health issues today. Hidden sugars, defined as sugars secretly added to many foods, are an important factor that can negatively affect the health of consumers and cause some health problems. While many people think that sugar is only found in sweet snacks and drinks, in fact, many foodstuffs contain hidden sugar. Hidden sugars are frequently used in products such as processed foods, instant drinks, preserves, sauces and packaged snacks. This situation makes it difficult for consumers to control their sugar consumption and to lead a healthy life.
Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are above normal but not sufficient for the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. This is considered a warning sign for many, because individuals with prediabetes are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle changes and adopting healthy habits are often an important step in preventing or delaying the progression of diabetes after being diagnosed with prediabetes.
- Diagnostic Criteria: Prediabetes is diagnosed when fasting blood glucose levels are above the normal range but have not yet reached the limits accepted for diabetes. Individuals with fasting blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L) are considered prediabetic.
- High Risk Groups: Some people are at higher risk of developing prediabetes. These include obesity, physical inactivity, a family history of diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension (high blood pressure), and low HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels. Individuals with these risk factors should be more careful to prevent the progression of prediabetes with regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Complications: Individuals with prediabetes may experience the adverse effects of diabetes due to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels. Long-term complications of diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage, can also occur in individuals with prediabetes. Therefore, early intervention and regular follow-up are important.
- Lifestyle Changes: It is important to make lifestyle changes to prevent or delay the progression of prediabetes. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, increasing physical activity and managing stress can help reduce the risk of prediabetes. It is also important to avoid harmful habits such as smoking.
- Follow-up and Medication: It is important for people with prediabetes to have regular health check-ups. It may be necessary to monitor blood sugar levels, follow the follow-up schedule recommended by the healthcare professional, and consider drug therapy when necessary.
Prediabetes is considered a precursor to diabetes and its progression can be prevented with lifestyle changes. Steps such as regular checkups, healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management can help people with prediabetes maintain their health. However, as each individual’s situation may be different, it is important to discuss individual recommendations and treatment options with a healthcare professional.
What are the symptoms of hidden diabetes?
Because hidden sugar is a precursor to type 2 diabetes, its symptoms can often be mild or vague. For this reason, many people may not realize prediabetes, but the symptoms of hidden sugar can be listed as follows:
- Fatigue and Weakness: A persistent feeling of low energy, fatigue, and fatigue throughout the day can be among the symptoms of prediabetes. Higher-than-normal blood sugar levels can affect energy levels.
- Frequent Urination: Increased urine output or frequent urination can be a sign of prediabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause the kidneys to work harder, which increases urine production.
- Thirst and Excessive Drinking Needs: Constant thirst, dry mouth, and the need to drink excessively are among the symptoms of hidden diabetes. High blood sugar levels can cause fluid loss in the body and increase thirst.
- Appetite Changes: Some people with prediabetes may experience excessive appetite or a constant feeling of hunger. The body can produce more insulin to regulate high blood sugar levels, which can increase appetite.
- Weight Changes: Some people with prediabetes may experience weight gain or loss. High blood sugar levels can affect energy balance and cause difficulties with weight control.
- Numbness and Tingling: Long-term high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage. In this case, numbness, tingling or burning sensation may occur in the hands, feet or other body parts.
The symptoms of hidden diabetes can differ from person to person and sometimes there may be no symptoms at all. However, these symptoms may be more common in individuals with high risk factors. If prediabetes symptoms are felt or risk factors are present, it is important to see a healthcare professional and have blood sugar levels checked. Early diagnosis and intervention are important to prevent or delay the progression of prediabetes.
How is hidden sugar passed?
Hidden diabetes treatment often includes lifestyle changes. Some methods and techniques that can be used for the treatment of hidden sugar:
- Healthy eating: A healthy eating plan for individuals with prediabetes can help keep blood sugar levels under control. Although there is no such a diet as a hidden sugar diet, it is important for patients with prediabetes to choose foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and healthy fats. Portion control, regular meal times, and consumption of low-sugar foods should also be considered.
- Physical Activity: “What good is secret candy?” Among the answers to the question, exercise has an important role. Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, regulates blood sugar levels and helps with weight control. At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening exercises are recommended per week. Activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, swimming can be preferred.
- Weight Control: If there is excess weight in individuals with prediabetes, weight loss should be targeted. A healthy weight loss can help lower blood sugar levels and prevent the progression of prediabetes. Dietary regulation and physical activity with an individual plan provided by a dietitian or health professional are important for weight control.
- Stress Management: Stress can affect blood sugar levels. Stress management techniques can help people with prediabetes improve their blood sugar control. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies can be tried.
- Smoking and Alcohol Control: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can accelerate the progression of prediabetes and increase health complications. It is important to avoid or reduce the use of cigarettes and alcohol.
- Medication: In individuals with prediabetes, if lifestyle changes are not sufficient or blood sugar levels cannot be controlled, the doctor may recommend drug therapy. These drugs can help regulate blood sugar levels and delay the development of type 2 diabetes.
Treatment for hidden sugar can vary depending on individual needs and health status. The treatment plan should be determined by a healthcare professional. Regular follow-up, blood sugar monitoring and health checks are important for the management of prediabetes and maintaining a healthy life.
How many hidden sugar test should be?
The latent sugar test is a test used to measure a person’s blood sugar levels and detect prediabetes. One of the most commonly used tests is the fasting blood glucose test. In this test, the person usually gives a blood sample after a fasting period of 8-12 hours and the fasting blood sugar level is measured. The accepted range for diagnosing latent diabetes is blood glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L). This range is higher than normal but far from meeting the diagnostic criteria for diabetes.
However, based on risk factors and symptoms, doctors may recommend other tests, such as an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) or HbA1c test. These tests can help assess a person’s blood sugar levels in more detail and can be used to confirm or refute a diagnosis of prediabetes. It is recommended that individuals who are at risk of prediabetes or who show symptoms have regular prediabetes tests.