Diabetes: Are You At Risk?

It is so important to take care of yourself, but many times we are unaware there is something wrong.  According to an article in the November 2010 issue of Better Home and Gardens, most people with pre-diabetes experience no symptoms.  The following signs could mean you're at risk.  If any of these apply to you (especially if you are 45 or older), ask your doctor about glucose testing.

1. A body mass index of 25 or highter (go to cdc.gov/bmi for a BMI calculator)
2. Exercising for fewer than 20 minutes three time per week
3. An immediate family member with diabetes
4. High blood pressure
5. Low HDL ("good") cholesteraol or high triglycerides
6. Polycystic ovary syndrome
7. Gestational diabetes, or giving birth to a baby weighing more than pounds
8. Being of African-American , American  Indian, Hispanic, Asian-American, or Pacific Islander descent