Fasting insulin is the key. “Normal” is 2 to 20 (better to be on the low end). It will rise about ten years earlier than fasting glucose. Cut carbs and snacks.
Yep, what they are seeing are the symptoms of insulin resistance.
When I stopped listening to my doctor’s garbage diet advice and switched from high carb to high fat, I found I needed his services far less. I went from seeing him once a month to only going in when he calls me. I lost 40 pounds. I have plenty of energy. And I need to eat far less often. No more sleep apnea and generally better sleep. No more being comatose after a meal.