Glucose intolerance is often a precursor of type 2 diabetes. This condition also goes by the name of prediabetes. Glucose intolerance can act as a warning signal that type 2 diabetes may be just around the corner. Exercising and changing your eating habits, including restricting dietary fats, may help prevent glucose intolerance from progressing to full-blown diabetes.
Glucose Intolerance
Glucose intolerance usually has no symptoms. This condition can go unnoticed for several years. Glucose intolerance is a major risk factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes typically takes time to develop and occurs more frequently in physically inactive individuals who consume a poor diet, as well as people who have a family history of this disease. Common risk factors include obesity and being over the age of 40 years old. A simple blood test can detect the presence of glucose intolerance.
Glucose Testing
Fasting glucose tests and glucose tolerance tests both provide important information regarding the way your body metabolizes carbohydrates. A fasting glucose test that results in glucose levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicates a higher than normal amount of glucose in your blood stream. A glucose tolerance test that reveals a blood glucose level that ranges between 140 and 199 mg/dL also indicates an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, although the levels are not high enough for the diagnoses of diabetes.
Dietary Fat
A diet high in fat increases your risk of obesity, a major contributor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Eating a diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates and fiber can increase your risk of developing type-2 diabetes, especially if diabetes runs in your family. The Institute of Medicine recommends that you limit your fat intake to no more than 35 percent of your daily intake of calories.
Precautions
In addition to increasing your risk of developing glucose intolerance and type-2 diabetes, a diet high in fat can lead to other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease. Restricting your fat intake and increasing your level of activity can help keep glucose intolerance from developing into diabetes. Consult your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, especially if blood tests show you have prediabetes.
