Impaired glucose tolerance typically refers to a condition in which blood glucose levels are above normal, but are not elevated enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. The condition is also termed as pre-diabetes. Those with impaired glucose tolerance are usually recommended lifestyle measures that include maintaining a regular exercise routine and adopting a healthy diet to keep their glucose levels in check.
A person may not experience overt symptoms from the onset of this condition. Abnormal glucose levels can be detected through a screening test such an oral glucose tolerance test that measures how the body responds to sugar. The procedure typically involves testing glucose levels after an eight hour fasting period, and measuring it again two hours after drinking a sugar solution. Generally, if the test shows blood glucose levels in the 140 and 199 mg/dl range, two hours after the drink, this could signify impaired glucose tolerance.
Normally, sugar or glucose from food sources is assimilated into the blood stream following the digestive process. It is then passed on to the cells with the aid of insulin, a hormone of the pancreas gland. Sometimes the body can have trouble processing sugar, and it accumulates in the blood stream rather than proceeding to the cells. The possible reasons could be that the pancreas doesn't make sufficient insulin or the cells develop resistance to insulin. This can result in abnormal blood glucose levels, as seen in diabetic conditions.
Some factors have been associated with the incidence of impaired glucose tolerance. These include being overweight, especially having too much fat in the abdominal region; not getting enough exercise, and having a family history of type II diabetes. Those over forty five years of age might have a greater risk of impaired glucose tolerance. Race can be a factor, with Asians, African Americans and American Indians being among those more likely to be affected by this condition.
The possibility of developing type II diabetes tends to increase if a person has impaired glucose tolerance. It could also make one susceptible to heart disease and stroke. Hence people with this condition are often advised to make lifestyle changes to bring their glucose levels under control.
A commonly recommended measure is to follow a diet that is low in fat, sugar and calories, but high in fiber content. Regular exercise of moderate intensity is often suggested along with dietary changes to facilitate weight management. Physical activity utilizes glucose as energy, and could improve the cells’ response to insulin. Generally, people with impaired glucose tolerance are counseled to get their blood glucose levels tested at regular intervals.
