Dr. Sandraliz Solano, a doctor board-certified in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, integrates evidence-based traditional medicine with holistic approaches to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her expertise in behavioral health, habit change, CBT and mindfulness supports a personalized wellness journey that prioritizes whole-person health.
Prediabetes, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders are among the most pressing health concerns of our time, affecting millions globally. In the United States alone, more than 37 million people have diabetes, and 96 million adults, more than one in three, are estimated to have prediabetes. Worldwide, the numbers are equally alarming, with over 537 million people living with diabetes as of 2021. This figure is expected to rise to 783 million by 2045. These statistics highlight an urgent need to address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of these conditions.
What are prediabetes, diabetes, and metabolic disorders?
Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. If left unaddressed, it often progresses to type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, a chronic condition, occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Metabolic disorders encompass a range of conditions, including obesity, insulin resistance, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), that disrupt the body’s normal metabolic processes.
Symptoms associated with these conditions can vary but often include fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, unexplained weight loss, and slow-healing wounds (in advanced uncontrolled diabetes). Additional signs may include darkened areas of skin (acanthosis nigricans), particularly around the neck or armpits, and elevated levels of triglycerides or cholesterol detected during routine blood tests.
What causes these disorders?
The primary drivers of prediabetes, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders are lifestyle-related factors, such as poor dietary habits, physical inactivity, chronic stress, and insufficient sleep. Diets high in refined carbohydrates, added sugars, and unhealthy fats contribute to insulin resistance and chronic inflammation. Sedentary lifestyles exacerbate these issues, while chronic stress and sleep deprivation disrupt hormonal balance and impair the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar.
The role of lifestyle in prevention and management
While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices are the predominant factor influencing the development of these disorders. The good news? Lifestyle changes can not only prevent but also reverse the progression of chronic diseases. Healthy habits, including a nutrient-rich diet, regular physical activity, adequate rest, and stress management, help the body regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and build resilience to stressors, as well as maintain a healthy weight.
Living a life led by healthy habits doesn’t mean deprivation; it means empowerment. It means choosing foods that nourish your body, finding joy in movement, prioritizing restful sleep, and creating space for mental and emotional well-being. These choices cumulatively strengthen the body’s ability to function optimally and ward off disease.
Partnering with a holistic doctor
One of the most effective ways to take control of your health is by partnering with a physician who integrates modern medicine with holistic approaches. As a health expert passionate about guiding individuals toward lasting wellness, I believe in empowering patients with the knowledge and tools they need to take ownership of their health. A holistic doctor doesn’t just address symptoms; they help you identify the root causes of health challenges and create personalized strategies for the prevention, control, and even reversal of chronic diseases.
Five simple steps to start controlling diabetes and metabolic disorders
1. Prioritize whole foods
Shift toward a diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods. Focus on vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains, while minimizing added sugars and refined carbohydrates.
2. Move daily
Incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Walking, swimming, yoga, or strength training can improve insulin sensitivity and support overall health.
3. Manage stress
Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing. Chronic stress can disrupt blood sugar control and worsen metabolic health.
4. Sleep well
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a calming bedtime routine and maintain consistent sleep-wake times to support hormonal balance.
5. Partner with your doctor
Work with a healthcare professional who understands your unique needs and helps you create sustainable changes. Regular check-ups and open communication are key to effective disease management.
The path forward
Prediabetes, diabetes, and metabolic disorders are not inevitable. By making intentional lifestyle changes and seeking support from a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare provider, you can take charge of your health. My mission is to guide and inspire individuals to thrive by equipping them with the tools and strategies they need to prevent, manage, and even reverse chronic disease. Together, we can transform health outcomes and empower a healthier future for all.
Sandraliz Solano, MD, Family Doctor & Lifestyle Medicine Specialist
Sandraliz Solano, MD, DipABLM, a physician specializing in Family and Lifestyle Medicine, has dedicated her career to addressing the root causes of chronic illness, often tied to poor habits and lifestyle choices. Inspired by the challenges faced by her loved ones, herself and thousands of patients, she expanded beyond traditional primary care to focus on the psychological and behavioral foundations of health. Dr. Solano offers personalized, concierge-style care that fosters lasting improvements through trust and collaboration. Based in Naples, FL, she provides tailored healthcare to patients locally and globally, guiding them toward optimal well-being.
