Prediabetes Lifestyle Changes May Protect Heart, Kidneys and Brain, Study Finds
Millions of people with prediabetes may have more control over their future health than they realize. New research shows that prediabetes lifestyle changes can lower the risk of several chronic diseases. Healthy eating, weight loss, and regular exercise may offer stronger long-term protection than medication alone.
The study, published in JAMA, followed adults with prediabetes for more than 21 years. Researchers found that people who adopted healthier habits developed fewer chronic conditions. In contrast, those taking metformin or a placebo faced higher rates of multiple illnesses over time.
Prediabetes Raises More Than Diabetes Risk
Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. However, the condition can affect more than blood sugar control. It may increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems.
Experts warn that many people develop multimorbidity, which means living with two or more chronic illnesses. According to the CDC, more than two in five adults in the United States have prediabetes.
Healthy Habits Delivered Better Results
Researchers reported that 85% of participants eventually developed multimorbidity. Even so, the lifestyle group experienced fewer chronic diseases. Participants following lifestyle programs had a median of four conditions, compared with five in the metformin and placebo groups.
Regular physical activity played a major role. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. In addition, balanced meals and modest weight loss improved overall health outcomes.
Small Daily Choices Matter
Doctors say chronic disease is not an unavoidable part of aging. Instead, simple habits can influence long-term health. Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports the body in many ways.
Experts also encourage resistance training, quality sleep, stress management, and strong social connections. Therefore, the same actions that help prevent diabetes may also protect the heart, kidneys, and brain. These findings highlight that prediabetes lifestyle changes remain powerful tools for healthier aging.
