How to support a partner who has recently been diagnosed with prediabetes

by Kells McPhillips

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When your life partner is diagnosed with prediabetes, it’s natural to have questions. How does prediabetes differ from diabetes? How will this diagnosis impact their life? And, most of all, how can you show support at a time that no doubt feels challenging for one of the most important people in your life

“For some people, a diagnosis of prediabetes can be very stressful and cause increased anxiety in everyday family life, especially if there is a family history of diabetes and complications,” says Elizabeth Huggins, RD, a dietitian and certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist at Hilton Head Health. Those feelings may rub off on you because you love your significant other and want what’s best for them. That’s a good thing.

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Prediabetes diagnosis, explained by a dietitian

So, what is prediabetes? “Prediabetes is a condition in which blood glucose is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes,” explains Huggins. Blood sugar is measured using A1C, or the average amount of sugar in your blood over the last three months. “A fasting blood sugar between 100 to 125 mg/dL and/or a A1C of 5.7-6.4 percent is considered prediabetes,” says Huggins.

She adds that not everyone will experience specific symptoms related to prediabetes. However, some may notice a darkening of the skin in their armpit, neck, or groin area. “This physical manifestation is associated with insulin resistance. Insulin resistance happens when cells of the body do not respond properly to insulin and result in
elevations in blood sugar,” says Huggins. You may also experience other symptoms, such as increased thirst, slow-healing sores, and blurred vision.

“Prediabetes is a critical time to prevent the development of complications,” says Huggins. “Through lifestyle modifications, it is possible to reverse prediabetes or
prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes,” she says. And, of course, your love and support is part of the equation, too.

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How to offer prediabetes support to your loved on

So you want to show up as your most compassionate self right now — but how? Huggins recommends starting with your own research. “Be open to learning about
diabetes and how it is treated,” she says. Resources such as the American Diabetes Association, Taking Care of Your Diabetes, and the National Diabetes Prevention Program are great resources to get you started.

From there, choose the right time to ask your spouse about their experience with prediabetes so far. “Start with an open conversation about how you can help —
whether it is emotional support or behavior. If possible, plan times to talk when both parties can have a productive conversation, not in a stressful moment where tension
might be too high,” Huggins says.

As you navigate the days, weeks, and months following a prediabetes diagnosis, make it clear that you’re on this health journey together. “Although you may have good
intentions, avoid offering unsolicited advice. Respect that how you help your partner may change over time,” says Huggins. For example, you can offer to join your spouse for walks or workouts and suggest cooking healthy meals together. “It can be a great opportunity to improve your health as well, but don’t police or nag someone to try to get them to change their behavior,” adds Huggins.

All the while, Huggings recommends continuing to treat your partner with love and respect. Be gentle with them, check in, and encourage them to stay in step with their doctor.

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