Understanding Pre-diabetes & Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic health conditions in the world, affecting millions of people and impacting every aspect of life—physically, emotionally, and financially. Equally important is prediabetes, a stage where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward prevention, management, and a healthier life.
What Is Pre-diabetes?
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar (glucose) levels are elevated above normal but not high enough to meet the criteria for type 2 diabetes. It is sometimes called borderline diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance.
Fasting blood sugar: 100–125 mg/dL
Oral glucose tolerance test: 140–199 mg/dL after 2 hours
Hemoglobin A1C: 5.7%–6.4%
People with pre-diabetes often show no obvious symptoms, which is why it’s sometimes called the “silent warning.” Without intervention, 15–30% of individuals with pre-diabetes may develop type 2 diabetes within 5 years (American Diabetes Association, 2026).
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly produce or use insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. This leads to chronically high blood glucose, which over time can cause serious complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, vision problems, and nerve damage.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Usually diagnosed in children or young adults. Requires insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes: Most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors, genetics, and insulin resistance. Usually develops in adults over 40 but increasingly seen in younger populations.
Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after birth but increases the risk of type 2 diabetes later.
Risk Factors for Pre-diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes
Overweight or obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
Family history of diabetes
Age over 45
High blood pressure or high cholesterol
History of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Certain ethnicities (African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian American,
Pacific Islander)
Current Statistics
Pre-diabetes: Approximately 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has pre-diabetes (CDC, 2023Attachment.png). Around 90% of people with pre-diabetes are unaware they have it.
Diabetes: Worldwide, over 537 million adults have diabetes (IDF, 2026Attachment.png).
In the U.S., 37 million people have diabetes (~11% of the population) (CDC, 2023).
Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.
Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90–95% of all diagnosed cases (American Diabetes Association, 2026Attachment.png).
The global prevalence of diabetes is projected to rise to over 643 million by 2030 if preventive measures are not widely adopted (IDF, 2026Attachment.png).
Symptoms To Watch For and Report To Your Medical Provider
Increased thirst and frequent urination
Extreme fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
(Note: Prediabetes often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is crucial.)
Prevention and Management
The good news is that prediabetes and type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed through lifestyle and holistic care:
Maintain a healthy weight
Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fiber, and lean protein
Stay physically active (150 minutes/week recommended)
Manage stress and mental health
Prioritize sleep
Monitor blood sugar levels regularly
Plan financially for healthcare, medications, and wellness needs
Faith can also play a critical role in management—prayer, meditation, and spiritual encouragement support mental and emotional resilience during this journey.
Key Takeaways
Pre-diabetes is a silent warning; early action can prevent progression to type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is highly preventable with lifestyle changes, while type 1 requires medical management.
Awareness, regular testing, and a holistic approach—including physical, emotional, spiritual, and financial wellness—are essential.
Small, consistent steps today can lead to long-term health, vitality, and well-being.
Next Steps
At Kingdom Living Consultants, we empower individuals and families to manage diabetes and pre-diabetes holistically, integrating faith, wellness, and practical life strategies.
Book an appointment today. Looking forward to meeting with you!
References / Works Cited
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2023.
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics-report/index.html
International Diabetes Federation (IDF). IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th Edition, 2026.
American Diabetes Association (ADA). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2026.
Diabetes Care, 49(Suppl. 1): S1–S312.
https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/49/Supplement_1/S1/30744/Standards-of-Care-