By Sharon Buhr 

A fairly new term—pre-diabetes—is being used by doctors. It is when your fasting blood sugar is from 100 to 125 mg/dl, in other words, it is not quite diabetes (defined as a fasting blood sugar of 126 and above) and can be delayed or even prevented.  
To prevent diabetes from developing it is important to pay attention to what you eat, and exercise. Fruits and vegetables are a cornerstone of a healthy diet to prevent diabetes.  They are high in fiber and vitamins and minerals, and low in calories.  Be careful not to dollop on the high fat  such as dressings and butter on top of the veggies!
Both fruits and veggies also are rich in phytochemicals  such as allyl sulfides (onions, leeks, garlic), carotenoids (fruits, carrots), flavonoids (fruits, vegetables), polyphenols (tea, grapes).  These also help protect us from a variety of other diseases.
Because of four large studies the evidence is clear, individuals at risk for diabetes (i.e. individuals with pre-diabetes) can be identified and diabetes can be delayed, and even prevented.  The reasons for preventing diabetes are many.  People with diabetes have increased infections, heart disease, kidney problems, and even eye problems and blindness.  
So the question is,  how can diabetes be prevented?  Lifestyle modification is the key.  This has been proven to be even more effective that glucose-lowering drugs.  The overwhelming majority of individuals with pre-diabetes are overweight.  By losing 5-10 percent of body weight it is possibly to bring down your fasting blood sugar with the goal of getting it under 100.
Three entities in Valley City have joined together to offer a diabetes prevention program here in Barnes County.  They are MeritCare Clinic, Mercy Hospital and the City County Health District.   Almost 40 people initially enrolled in 2006.  The national Diabetes Prevention Program materials are being used.
Key aspects of the program to help these individuals with pre-diabetes lose weight and attain a healthy blood sugar are eating more fruits and vegetables, eating less fat and exercising more.  
For more information on preventing diabetes, please contact me at 845-6456.