From Prediabetes to Healthy: Steps To Prevent Type 2 Diabetes (West Region)

This article contains information specific to beneficiaries living in the West RegionAlaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa (excludes Rock Island arsenal area), Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri (except St. Louis area), Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas (southwestern corner including El Paso), Utah, Washington and Wyoming.. Check the map to find your region.

Prediabetes is a health condition in which a person’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to classify as type 2 diabetes. It’s a warning sign that you could develop diabetes if you don’t make certain lifestyle changes. 

If you have prediabetes, you’re at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here are some tips to help prevent this from happening:

• Lose weight. If you’re overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help lower your blood sugar levels. This reduces your risk of developing diabetes.
• Get regular exercise. Physical activity uses up sugar for energy and helps your body use insulin more effectively. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise at a moderate intensity five days each week.
• Eat a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean meats. Limit processed foods, including sugary drinks and unhealthy fats.
• Manage stress. Stress can contribute to high blood sugar levels. It’s important to find ways to manage stress in your life.

There are also wellness programs that can help you prevent diabetes. These programs often include counseling and support from a trained coach who can help you make lifestyle changes to lower your diabetes risk.

If you have prediabetes, talk with your doctor about your risk of developing diabetes in the future. Your doctor can help you make a plan for prevention.

TRICARE West Region resources

• Visit the Learning Center for healthy lifestyle programs and classes. Get started with the “The Essentials of Diabetes Management” recorded class. 
• If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, you can nominate yourself for one-on-one coaching with a diabetes management specialist. Call Health Net Federal Services at 844-732-2436, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PT, or use the self-nomination form.
• Sign up for preventive care coaching to get one-on-one healthy eating and stress management support.