b. Two out of five. Earlier this year, the government changed guidelines
for determining a person’s risk for developing diabetes. Under
the new guidelines, about 41 million Americans are considered prediabetic.
It’s important for people who are prediabetic to make changes
in their eating and exercise habits in order to delay or prevent
the onset of diabetes. Eating less sugar and sweets and more fruits,
vegetables and whole grains can make a difference. Losing just 5
percent of body weight, 10 pounds for a 200-pound adult, can lower
blood sugar below prediabetic levels. Physical activity can boost
your metabolism, burn more calories and help improve the body’s
response to insulin.