A recent government estimate shows that nearly 1 in 3 U.S. teens has prediabetes (or insulin resistance), putting them at risk for Type 2 diabetes and other serious health problems.

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that about 32.7% of U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17 have blood sugar issues, which translates to approximately 8.4 million young people. The prevalence among teenagers has more than doubled in recent years, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and preventive measures.

Understanding Prediabetes or Insulin Resistance

Prediabetes, or insulin resistance, occurs when blood glucose levels are elevated because insulin is not effectively transporting glucose into cells to be used for energy. However, blood glucose levels are not yet high enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes. This condition is a critical warning sign that increases the risk of developing diabetes and other serious health issues, such as heart disease and stroke.

Risk Factors Among Teenagers

Several factors contribute to the development of blood sugar problems in teenagers, including:

- Lifestyle: The type of diet a family typically eats, or what teenagers are allowed to consume, if not healthy, can significantly increase their risk.

- Physical inactivity: Engaging in physical activity fewer than three days per week can elevate the risk.

Signs and Symptoms

Many teenagers with prediabetes may not exhibit noticeable symptoms. Excess body weight, especially belly fat, is a common sign of insulin resistance. If prediabetes progresses to diabetes, symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.

While some teens may regain normal blood sugar levels after puberty, many do not. This condition can place them at higher risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes later in life.

Prevention and Management

Preventing the onset of Type 2 diabetes is crucial. Effective strategies include:

- Healthy eating: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein while limiting processed foods can help manage blood sugar levels.

- Regular physical activity: Engaging in moderate exercise regularly can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels.

Metabolic Syndrome

Insulin resistance, or prediabetes, is part of Metabolic Syndrome. Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome may include belly fat or abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, autoimmune-related issues, inflammation, and immune system challenges. Other associated concerns include hormone imbalances, blood sugar irregularities, poor sleep quality, low energy levels, and fatty liver issues.

These symptoms need to be addressed because the underlying issue is metabolic dysfunction.

Awareness of prediabetes or insulin resistance in teenagers is essential for early intervention. Encouraging healthy lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing blood sugar levels and supporting overall health.

Addressing Metabolic Syndrome

Our recommendation for improving metabolism issues, such as insulin resistance is the TEKNON Protocol.

TEKNON Protocol was formulated to optimize metabolic function, thereby improving insulin resistance and potentially reducing the health risk factors associated with it.