In Wisconsin, 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes. Yet according to the national Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 90% don’t know they have it.

Prediabetes is a serious health condition that comes before diabetes. It means your blood glucose (also called blood sugar) levels are higher than normal but aren’t high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. If left untreated, prediabetes can turn into type 2 diabetes. Take 60 seconds today to know your risk by visiting www.diabetes.org/widhsrisktest.

The good news is that prediabetes can be reversed if caught early! Small changes can make a big difference. Take control of your life today by following these six tips:

Get Active.

Aim to walk for 30 minutes, five days a week. If you don’t have 30 minutes all at once, take shorter walks during the day.

Eat Healthier.

Avoid or cut back on sugary beverages such as sodas, sports drinks, and sugar-sweetened teas and coffees. Eat smaller portions. Limit fried foods. Fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables.

Manage Weight.

Make a plan to lose weight. Losing even a few pounds will help. 

Manage Stress.

Take a walk, read, meditate, clean, do yoga … find what works for you!

Stop Smoking.

If you need help quitting, call the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line at 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669).

Take Medication as Prescribed.

If you have been prescribed medication by your doctor, take your medication as directed – it can improve your health and help you live longer.

  Janessa VandenBerge, Master of Public Health, Certified Health Education Specialist, is a community health educator with the Eau Claire City-County Health Department.