Understanding Your Prediabetes Diagnosis: What to Do Next

Nov 11, 2025
Prediabetes isn’t a life sentence — it’s your body nudging you to take action. Discover how to turn this “warning light” into a chance for change and simple steps to help you stay healthy.

Hearing the word prediabetes raises a lot of questions and can feel overwhelming — but it’s actually good news. 

This diagnosis can be a powerful turning point. Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not yet in the diabetes range. That “not yet” is important: It’s your chance to make changes and avoid Type 2 diabetes altogether.

At Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston and Sugar Land, Texas, Dr. Tomas Rios, Dr. Nicolin Neal, and our team walk alongside you at every step of your health journey. We don’t just treat chronic disease — we help you prevent it whenever possible.

What does prediabetes mean?

Think of prediabetes as your body’s early warning system. Your cells aren’t using insulin as efficiently as they should, so sugar builds up in your bloodstream. Unchecked, that can lead to Type 2 diabetes and complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Here’s the encouraging part: Lifestyle changes at this stage can make a big difference; many people return their blood sugar levels to the healthy range and avoid diabetes altogether.

Steps you can take right now

Here are some practical ways to get started:

Focus on your plate

Shifting toward more whole foods — vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains — helps your body process sugar more effectively. Reducing sugary drinks and refined carbs is another big win.

Move more often

You don’t need a gym membership to get results. Aim for regular activity, whether that’s brisk walking, biking, or dancing in your living room. Physical movement helps your body use insulin more effectively.

Keep an eye on your weight

Even a modest weight loss — 5% to 7% of your body weight — can make a significant impact on blood sugar control.

Prioritize sleep and stress relief

Poor sleep and constant stress can spike blood sugar levels. Building healthier routines, such as setting a bedtime and practicing relaxation techniques, can keep your body in balance.

Partner with your care team

Prediabetes isn’t something you need to face alone. Regular check-ins and lab work help us track your progress and make adjustments as needed.

These steps aren’t just about avoiding diabetes — they’re about helping you feel stronger, more energetic, and more in control of your health.

Why professional guidance matters

It’s tempting to try to manage prediabetes on your own, but having professional support gives you a safety net. We can:

  • Track changes in your blood sugar over time
  • Help you create a realistic plan that fits your lifestyle
  • Prescribe medication if lifestyle changes aren’t enough

That way, you’re not just guessing what might work — you’re following a plan tailored to your body and your goals.

Taking the next step

Prediabetes is a chance to rewrite your story before diabetes takes over. With the right support, you can use this time to create lasting habits that protect your health for years to come.

At Rios Healthcare Associates, we’re here to guide you from testing to personalized treatment. Call us today or request an appointment online to turn your diagnosis into an opportunity.