Impaired fasting glucose

Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) is a type of prediabetes, where a person's blood sugar levels during periods of fasting are consistently higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Definition

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) have slightly different views on the definition of IFG. According to the WHO, IFG is a fasting glucose level of 6.1 mmol/L (110 mg/dL) to 6.9 mmol/L (125 mg/dL). The ADA defines IFG as a fasting glucose level of 5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL) to 6.9 mmol/L (125 mg/dL).

Causes

IFG is often caused by insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, leading to higher levels of glucose in the blood. Other factors that may contribute to IFG include obesity, a lack of physical activity, and a diet high in sugars and fats.

Symptoms

People with IFG often do not have any symptoms. However, they are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Diagnosis

IFG is diagnosed through a Fasting plasma glucose test, which measures the level of glucose in a person's blood after an overnight fast. If the test shows a fasting blood glucose level between 100 and 125 mg/dL, it may indicate IFG.

Treatment

Treatment for IFG focuses on lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and losing weight if necessary. Medications may also be prescribed in some cases.

Prevention

Prevention of IFG involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight.