Should I be Worried?
Greetings everyone! I'm a 37-year-old woman, standing at 5'4" and weighing 167 pounds. I maintain a regular fitness routine, engaging in yoga and strength training between three to five times each week for at least half an hour. Generally, I view myself as a healthy individual, although I do sometimes treat myself to a DQ blizzard or a burger and fries. Recently, I had a blood test conducted after a period of fasting and received a glucose reading of 101. The accompanying note indicated, "for individuals without a diabetes diagnosis, a glucose level between 100 and 125 points to potential prediabetes that should be confirmed with another test." Additionally, my LDL cholesterol was flagged at 111, which is noted as abnormal. The guidance provided stated that for primary prevention, a desirable level is below 100 mg/dL, while for those with coronary heart disease (CHD) or diabetes, the recommendation is above 70 mg/dL. My total cholesterol came back at 189. For context, my previous LDL reading in 2023 was 110, with a fasting glucose level of 96. I discontinued the use of oral contraceptives in November 2022, as my husband opted for a vasectomy. I began taking spironolactone in May 2025 to manage severe cystic acne, which I’m pleased to share is now under control. Could it be that my hormones are still readjusting? Should I be alarmed by these results? What’s particularly curious to me is how much stronger I feel compared to before. I never engaged in strength training until now, and I can now lift weights ranging from 40 to 50 pounds consistently. I can also walk for considerable distances without discomfort and tackle multiple flights of stairs without losing my breath. I appreciate you taking the time to read my post!
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 11:10:53 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you’re proactive about your health and have shared detailed information about your situation. Your recent lab results show indications of prediabetes and slightly elevated LDL cholesterol, but there is no immediate cause for alarm. Here’s a concise overview and actionable steps to consider.
Summary of Key Points:
- Fasting Glucose: Your result of 101 mg/dL indicates potential prediabetes.
- LDL Cholesterol: At 111 mg/dL, it’s slightly elevated, and ideally, it should be below 100 mg/dL.
- Improved Strength and Fitness: Your increased physical strength and stamina are positive signs of health.
Explanation:
- Prediabetes: A fasting glucose level between 100-125 mg/dL suggests that your body may not be using insulin effectively; this can be reversible with lifestyle changes.
- Cholesterol Levels: While your LDL is elevated, it's important to look at total cholesterol and other factors like diet, activity level, and family history before drawing any conclusions.
Given your active lifestyle and positive physical changes, these results may serve as motivation to adjust your diet and monitor your health more closely.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Diet Modification: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed sugars and saturated fats. Consider reducing high-calorie treats like DQ Blizzards and burgers to occasional treats rather than regular consumption.
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Regular Monitoring: Schedule a follow-up glucose test as recommended (usually within 3-6 months) to monitor your levels. Keeping track of your weight, diet, and activity level can provide insights into any changes.
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Physical Activity: Continue your fitness routine, especially strength training and cardiovascular exercises, as they can help lower blood sugar and improve cholesterol. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, combined with strength training.
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Stay Informed: Research and educate yourself about prediabetes and cholesterol management to make informed decisions. Resources like the American Diabetes Association can provide valuable information.
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Consider Hormone Effects: Since you recently stopped taking oral contraceptives and started spironolactone, you may want to monitor how your hormonal changes affect your body's responses, though these results are not uncommon.
Feel free to ask further questions about managing your health! It's commendable that you’re taking an active role in your wellness, and with some adjustments, you can maintain and improve your health over time.
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