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7 Early Signs of Prediabetes You Don’t Want to Ignore

August 08, 2025

Prediabetes doesn’t always come with obvious symptoms – but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless.

“Because it develops gradually, the early signs of prediabetes can be subtle and easy to miss,” says Monaa Zafar, MD, a primary care provider with Soundview Medical Associates. “But catching it early is the best chance we have to reverse it.”

Here’s what to watch for.

1. You’re more tired than usual – especially after eating.

Feeling unusually tired, especially after meals, can be a sign that your body isn’t processing blood sugar properly.

This is particularly common after eating high-carbohydrate food, which can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes.

> Related: Can a Smartwatch Monitor My Blood Sugar?

2. You’re hungrier or thirstier than normal.

If your body isn’t using glucose effectively for energy, you might feel hungrier — even if you’re eating more than usual.

At the same time, high blood sugar levels can trigger excessive thirst and more frequent trips to the bathroom.

> Related: 10 Dietitian-Approved Snacks for Diabetes

3. You’re noticing skin changes.

Dark, velvety patches of skin — especially around the neck, armpits, groin or knuckles — can be a sign of insulin resistance, one of the early warning signs of prediabetes

4. Cuts or scrapes are healing slowly.

High blood sugar can slow down your body’s natural healing process.

If you notice minor wounds or scrapes are taking longer to heal than usual, it’s worth paying attention.

> Related: 5 Signs of Insulin Resistance

5. You’re gaining or losing weight without trying.

Unexplained weight changes — whether it’s weight gain or loss — can be linked to blood sugar imbalances.

It’s especially worth noting if your weight changes are paired with other symptoms.

6. You’re feeling more irritable or foggy.

Blood sugar fluctuations can affect your mood, energy and focus.

Mood shifts, low energy, or even mild brain fog can be early signs of metabolic changes. These symptoms are often overlooked or chalked up to stress or age.

7. Your waistline is growing.

A growing waistline that’s not tied to diet or exercise changes, can also be a sign of insulin resistance.

It’s also one of the key indicators doctors use to evaluate metabolic health.

When to get screened.

Because prediabetes symptoms can be so subtle, screening is often the only way to catch it early.

Even if your symptoms are mild, it’s a good idea to talk to your provider — especially if you have risk factors like:

• A BMI over 25
• A family history of diabetes
• A history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome
• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• A sedentary lifestyle
• Belonging to a higher-risk group, including African American, South Asian, Latin American, Native American or Pacific Islander

“Both the American Diabetes Association and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommend screening all adults over age 35 every three years,” says Dr. Zafar. “But if you have any of these risk factors, it should start earlier – and happen more often.”

If you’re not sure whether your symptoms could be signs of prediabetes, a quick conversation with your doctor is the best place to start.

> Related: 3 Ways Your Primary Care Provider Keeps You Healthy 

Small changes that make a big difference.

The good news? Prediabetes is reversible.

“Losing just 5 to 10 percent of your starting body weight can significantly improve insulin resistance,” Dr. Zafar says.

“Regular movement, a more plant-forward diet, quality sleep and stress management are all powerful tools – and they don’t have to be overwhelming.”

Other tips:

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity a week (think walking, dancing, swimming)
• Prioritize sleep: 6 to 9 hours of uninterrupted rest
• Practice stress relief, like journaling, yoga or deep breathing
• Consider a Diabetes Prevention Program (CDC-approved), often covered by insurance
• Use tools like MyFitnessPal or Lose It to track patterns and stay motivated

A diagnosis to act on – not fear.

“Prediabetes isn’t a reason to panic — it’s a reason to act,” says Dr. Zafar. “You don’t have to change everything overnight. Focus on small, sustainable steps. And don’t go at it alone – support makes a big difference.”

Her final reminder? “Celebrate progress, not perfection. That’s what keeps people going.”