I have prediabetes, what should I do?

Over 25 million American adults—about 8 percent of the population—have diabetes. Type 2 diabetes, which is the type both celebrity chef Paula Deen and American Idol judge Randy Jackson have, accounts for 90 to 95% of diabetes among adults. Even more serious, it is estimated that 35 percent of Americans adults have prediabetes. Those with prediabetes do not have blood glucose levels high enough to be classified as full-fledged diabetes but are on the road to developing it in the future.

According to the American Diabetes Association, studies show that those with prediabetes who lose weight and increase their physical activity can either prevent diabetes by having their blood glucose levels return to normal, or at least, delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. The ADA also recommends meeting with a registered dietitian for dietary guidance in both managing and preventing diabetes.