069: Why and When Did We Start Using the Term Pre-Diabetes?

Simple, Healthy Choices for Weight Loss

In this episode, Dr. Steve explores the term "pre-diabetes," tracing its origins, diagnostic changes, and the influence of dietary shifts and pharmaceutical interests. He emphasizes the critical role of nutrition in managing blood sugar levels and questions the expanding definition of pre-diabetes in public health.

[00:01 - 08:12] Historical Insights on Diabetes and Nutritional Guidelines

Introduction to the concept of pre-diabetes encountered at health conferences.

High blood sugar indicates insulin resistance, advocating for addressing underlying causes.

Introduction of "pre-diabetes" term in 2001 by ADA, and its implications.

The term "pre-diabetes" was introduced in 2001, leading to confusion and controversy.

[08:13 - 15:34] The A1C Criteria and its Implications

How the A1C test measures blood sugar and its role in identifying diabetes.

Revision of the A1C criteria over time, from 9% to 6%, and then to 5.7% by the ADA.

The creation of 72 million more potential diabetic patients in the US by lowering the A1C threshold.

The influence of drug companies and financial incentives on the expanded definition of pre-diabetes.

[15:35 - 21:22] Reassessing Pre-diabetes Treatment and Its Consequences

2018 research shows many pre-diabetics return to normal A1C levels without intervention.

Surge in diabetes drugs post-1980s, despite lack of new medications in preceding decades.

Over 100 new treatments targeting pre-diabetes, despite lack of evidence to prevent diabetes.

Medication for pre-diabetes is often prescribed off-label, raising concerns about efficacy and safety.

Financial incentives drive lower A1C thresholds, increasing potential patient numbers.

[21:23 - 29:20] Closing Segment

The critical role of nutrition in reversing type 2 diabetes and the limitations of diabetic medications.

The expansion of the pre-diabetes definition and its financial benefits for various stakeholders.

Criticizes the broad definition of pre-diabetes, leading to unnecessary medication for many.

Emphasizes nutrition as an effective strategy for diabetes prevention and management.

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Tweetable Quotes:

“The main reason for this is because of financial conflicts. That's why they came up with the term prediabetes. That's why they keep dropping the A1C lower and lower because they get more and more people.“ - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“The reason why you're gonna go from pre-diabetes to diabetes is because you never change your nutrition habits.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“All medications have adverse effects. They're gonna fix one thing and they're gonna mess a lot of things up.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“The only way to treat truly treat type two diabetes is to change your nutrition.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett