Glucose Levels: How Does It Impact My Health?
Information, Research, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Medical Disclaimer: The information below provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Any treatment protocol should be discussed with a qualified healthcare practitioner.
Blood sugar is the amount of glucose present in the blood. Glucose levels rise after meals and are usually lowest in the morning, before the first meal of the day. Failure to maintain blood glucose in the normal range leads to conditions of persistently high (hyperglycemia) or low (hypoglycemia) blood sugar.
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)
Our body's failure to metabolize carbohydrates results in the basic cellular failure to metabolize glucose. This causes the cells of our body to be unable to transport glucose from the bloodstream to the interior. The glucose then either remains stored as body fat or glycogen, and/or is urinated out of the body.
Studies show that control of high blood sugar can significantly help decrease chances of several very serious conditions. They certainly indicate that people, particularly over the age of 40, should have yearly blood glucose tests to rule out diabetes, and the development of greater risk factors for stroke, cancer and cognitive impairment.
Screening is especially important for people at high risk of developing diabetes, such as those with a family history of diabetes, those who are overweight, and those who are more than 40 to 45 years old.
Blood Glucose Levels (Fasting) - Analysis
Low Glucose Levels
Less than 40 mg/dL (2.2 mmol/L)
Normal Glucose
70 to 99 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.5 mmol/L)
Pre-diabetes
100 to 125 mg/dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/L)
Diabetes
126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) and above
Associated Health Problems
Diabetes
A high glucose level can indicate early diabetes. Identifying a high glucose level in a person with no symptoms of diabetes and implementing a treatment program that will control the blood sugar can reduce the risk and consequences of diabetes - specifically damage to the kidney, heart, blood vessels and eyes.
- An exercise program and some weight loss might lower the glucose level to normal and prevent diabetes from occurring.
Stroke
In a 2002 study, analysis of over 500 patients showed that 40% of patients suffering their first stroke had high glucose levels. Additional mortality in this group was increased. Patients with high glucose levels were more likely to have complications after a stroke, and were likely to have much longer hospital stays following a stroke.
Cancer
A study published in 2005, in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), found those with high glucose levels to be at increased risk for developing cancer and dying from cancer. A higher death rate for all cancers, approximately 29%, was reported in these patients.
Dementia
The University of California-San Francisco evaluated women with high glucose levels in regards to risk for development of dementia or mental impairment with aging. Their study showed that women with high glucose levels increase their chances of developing dementia by an astounding 40%.
Gout
Many people with gout have insulin resistance, a prediabetic condition in which the body's cells don't properly use the glucose-transporting hormone insulin. This raises levels of insulin and glucose, impairing the kidneys' ability to remove uric acid from the body.
Nutritional Support
Almonds
Research shows that eating almonds may help avoid blood sugar spikes after carbohydrate-rich meals and prevent oxidative stress. This helps protect against diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Bananas
The vitamin B6 in bananas regulates blood glucose levels. The high potassium content also helps with high blood pressure.
Barley
Helps stabilize glucose levels and is great for diabetics. However, barley contains gluten and must be avoided if you are celiac or allergic to barley.
Cod Liver Oil
Used in trials with both insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Improved glucose response and other markers. Vitamin A helps promote healing and protects the retina.
Ginseng
Research shows American ginseng may help lower blood glucose levels after meals and reduce average glucose levels over a three-month period.
Flax Seeds
High in soluble fiber, which slows glucose absorption, reduces glycemic index, and keeps blood sugar stable. Mix ground flaxseeds with yogurt or beverages.