Family and Prediabetes – supporting a loved ones health journey

Supporting someone with prediabetes is a balancing act. Everyone is going to react differently when they receive their prediabetes diagnosis.

• How was it told to them?
• Whether they expected it or not?
• Whether they know people with diabetes already?
• Whether they have other medical conditions?
• And, their attitude to helping themselves – denial or taking action?

Adding to this is that everyone has a different idea of what good support looks like, what support they think they would benefit from and what they think they wouldn’t. That’s if they have even considered utilising their friends and family in the management of their prediabetes.

The absolute ideal – which means it probably happens quite rarely is…
Your loved one is very clear about their needs; they educate you about their condition and communicate openly about their limitations and boundaries. They suggest specific ways they want your help and are patient and understanding as you learn and adapt to their needs.

The likelihood is that communication is clumsy and awkward with neither person really knowing what they should or shouldn’t do. It takes time to get this right but as with most chronic conditions you have time. It’s worth the effort to be able to support your loved one in the best way for you both. Overall, what’s good for someone with prediabetes is very likely to be good for you as well.

To provide an evidence-based view was difficult as it seems there has been limited research into this area, but I did spot some positive findings from further afield.

Korean Journal of Family Medicine – Family Involvement to Stop the Conversion of Prediabetes to Diabetes

Although prediabetes is a reversible condition, the prevention of diabetes has received little attention. It is essential for prediabetic individuals to implement new health-improvement techniques. Focusing on family systems is one strategy to promote health, which is determined by health patterns that are often taught, established, and adjusted within family contexts. For disease prevention, a family-based approach may be beneficial. Family support is essential for the metabolic control of the disease. This study showed several strategies for involving the patient’s family members in preventing the conversion of prediabetes to T2DM and to emphasize that the patient’s family members are a valuable resource to reduce the incidence of diabetes.

A research study gives an arm’s length view but its personal experience which is much easier for us all to relate to.

I didn’t know I had prediabetes; I was diagnosed with Type 2 without being aware it was coming. Therefore, I’m handing over the rest of this blog to the voices of people who currently support loved ones with their prediabetes or who currently receive support from their loved ones. These stories come from a request out to my wider diabetes connections; thank you, Katy, Tulsi and Beckland.

“When my hubby was first diagnosed the doctor just told him to lose weight and watch what he ate as he was likely to need amputation in later life. Very scary!! As this was the only information we had we had to research and ask others what they did.

There was no information about how to balance protein and carb intake and stay within a healthy weight range. So, it was up to us to work out a balanced diet. I bought lots of cookery books, spoke to friends and worked out what happens when his blood sugar levels fall or rise.

The responsibilities I have taken on are food related and how to manage when he gets a virus (like a cold or chest infection). I monitor his symptoms and check he’s taken his medication and do lots of research online (not always the best way) about new thoughts on managing diabetes.

Now he’s on once-a-day insulin I’m beginning to recognise his mood swings for low/high blood sugar levels and make sure he has enough food/water etc. it’s a never-ending learning curve as tiredness, extreme heat, exercise (he plays tennis twice weekly) and gardening can throw a spanner in our quite careful regime.”

“I’m more conscious about quality and the quantity of the food I buy. After reading quite a bit online our food is much ‘cleaner’ and where possible I will buy organic products and our consumption of UPF is as minimal as possible.

I am also aware that one of us has to keep ‘sane’ in the event of dealing with a high and obviously a low, getting quick release food/drink into him and then helping him deal with the emotional outcome he usually experiences. He hates having to rely on others to help him and feels embarrassed, so I often start discussing mundane issues as a distraction or a suggestion that brings laughter to both of us.”

“Checking in is good, i.e. asking how have your blood sugars been today/this week?”

“Understanding that I just want to look after my own food and cook for myself because I want to track and know exactly what I’ll be eating (especially while doing calorie deficit).”

“I’m getting my support through reading recommended books rather than friends and family.”

“Offering sweet carby treats when they are having them is not good. Just enjoy it without asking me to join.”

“Don’t nag me about diet and exercise, I prefer the carrot not the stick.”

“And don’t share my health struggles without my approval as some days I am happy to share and some days I want to keep it to myself. “

And now for the practical part – if you support a loved one with prediabetes here are some suggestions:

Diet:
Suggest adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Offer to help with meal planning, grocery shopping, and preparing diabetic-friendly meals.
Physical activity:
Encourage regular exercise, whether it’s a brisk walk, joining a gym, or participating in an activity together.
Stress management:
Help them find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, mindfulness, or spending time in nature.

Be a partner in change:
Participate in healthy lifestyle changes alongside them. This could involve adopting a similar diet or exercise routine.
Offer help with tasks:
Assist with household chores or errands to free up time for them to focus on managing their prediabetes.
Monitor blood sugar (if appropriate):
If they’re checking blood sugar levels, offer to help with testing or learn how to do it yourself.
Attend appointments:
Offer to accompany them to doctor’s appointments or diabetes education classes.

Listen and validate:
Create a safe space for them to express their feelings and concerns about prediabetes.
Be patient:
Understand that lifestyle changes can be challenging and setbacks may occur.
Celebrate small victories:
Acknowledge and praise their efforts and progress in managing prediabetes.
Encourage support groups:
Suggest joining a diabetes support group to connect with others who understand their experience.
Be a source of encouragement:
Remind them of their strengths and ability to manage prediabetes.

Recognize symptoms:
Be aware that blood sugar fluctuations can affect mood, leading to irritability, anxiety, or confusion.
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) can be serious and needs to be treated immediately. Symptoms vary, so be sure to know your friend’s or relative’s specific signs, which could include:

• Shakiness, nervousness, or anxiety
• Sweating, chills or clamminess
• Irritability or impatience
• Dizziness and difficulty concentrating
• Hunger or nausea
• Blurred vision
• Weakness or fatigue
• Anger, stubbornness, or sadness

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