By Swarna Kamble, M.D.

There's good news for those who've been diagnosed as being pre-diabetic. You may be able to significantly reduce your risk of developing a full-blown case of diabetes. And it gets better - achieving favorable results won't require a drastic lifestyle change.

Studies have shown that people with pre-diabetes can prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes by up to 58 percent by changing their daily habits.

When a person's blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes, the body goes into a pre-diabetic state. But if treated early enough, some may be able to turn back the clock and return elevated blood glucose levels to the normal range.

Losing excess weight and maintaining an ideal body weight have been shown to have a beneficial effect on those with pre-diabetes and diabetes. A healthy diet and moderate exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days a week may make a huge difference, even if you can only lose 10 to 15 pounds.

Also, you should cut your dietary fat to only 30 percent of your daily calories and take any medications as directed by your physician. I highly recommend decreasing your consumption of processed carbohydrates, such as white bread, white pasta and white rice, and increase the consumption of whole grains - think oatmeal, popcorn and wheat bread.

Pre-diabetes is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, so your doctor may wish to treat or counsel you on the cardiovascular risk factors, such as tobacco use, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

A doctor can recommend a medication that may prevent, or significantly reduce, the chance of developing diabetes. See a certified endocrinologist for a treatment plan that works for you.

Dr. Swarna Kamble is an endocrinologist for Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. View her full profile here.