Understanding High Blood Sugar: Causes, Risks, and Management
Blood sugar levels are a crucial indicator of our overall health. Maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges is essential to prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. However, high blood sugar can have severe consequences if left unmanaged.
The Dangers of Elevated Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar occurs when the body produces too much glucose or cannot use it effectively due to insulin resistance. This condition is a precursor to type 2 diabetes and increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, kidney damage, and nerve disorders. According to the American Diabetes Association, high blood sugar can lead to complications like numbness in hands and feet, blurred vision, and skin infections.
How Diet Affects Blood Sugar Levels
The foods we eat have a significant impact on our blood sugar levels. Consuming processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbohydrates 123 blood sugar level after eating leads to a rapid spike in glucose levels. how can i lower my blood sugar level On the other hand, incorporating fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps regulate blood sugar by slowing down its release into the bloodstream.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that increasing dietary fiber intake can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. Foods with a high glycemic index (GI), such as white bread and sugary snacks, should be avoided or consumed in moderation to prevent rapid spikes in glucose levels.
The Impact of Exercise on Blood Sugar Control
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Regular physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively, reducing its reliance on stored glucose for energy. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
Managing Stress and Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Stress is another significant factor influencing blood sugar ranges. When we experience chronic stress, our body produces cortisol, a hormone fix low blood sugar that increases glucose release from stored energy sources in the muscles and liver. To manage stress-induced blood sugar fluctuations, engage in relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
The Link Between Sleep Quality and Blood Sugar Regulation
Getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges. Research has shown that poor sleep quality can lead to insulin resistance, increased glucose levels, and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Aim for seven to eight hours of undisturbed sleep each night to help regulate blood sugar levels.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Ranges Effectively
Regular monitoring is crucial in managing high blood sugar levels. Use a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track your blood sugar readings, and adjust your diet and exercise plan accordingly. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that frequent self-monitoring can help individuals with type 2 diabetes achieve better glycemic control.
In conclusion, maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges requires a comprehensive approach that incorporates dietary changes, regular physical activity, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep quality. By understanding the causes of high blood sugar levels and taking proactive steps to manage them, we can reduce our risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
For more info on health-related topics, go here: Mini-Course on Ketosis: Take Dr. Berg's Advanced Evaluation Quiz: In this video, Dr. Berg talks about hypoglycemia and the many mood disorders it can mimic. This includes depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD and the list goes on and on. When someone has reactive hypoglycemia, they also have insulin resistance, which interferes with the normal glucose in the brain and nervous system. This can be greatly improved by switching the fuel source to ketones, the byproduct of fat burning. The brain uses ketones much more efficiently. Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio: Dr. Berg, age 56, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media. Follow Me On Social Media: Facebook: Instagram: Anchor: TikTok: ABOUT DR. BERG: Disclaimer: Dr. Eric Berg received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1988. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Berg is a licensed chiropractor in Virginia, California, and Louisiana, but he no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients so he can focus on educating people as a full time activity, yet he maintains an active license. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Berg and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.