GlucoMiracle » Health Blog http://www.glucomiracle.com Lower your blood sugar levels naturally with 4X power! Wed, 25 Dec 2013 10:39:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.8.3 Understanding the Symptoms of Diabetes http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/11/08/understanding-the-symptoms-of-diabetes/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/11/08/understanding-the-symptoms-of-diabetes/#comments Fri, 08 Nov 2013 20:51:33 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=496 continue reading]]>  

For anyone with unstable blood glucose levels, knowing the first signs of diabetes is important. Detecting the disease early may lead to more effective treatment and prevention of further damage. Understanding the cause of these symptoms is just as important in making the appropriate lifestyle and medical changes to address the condition.

 

Frequent Urination and Excessive Thirst

When blood sugar levels are too high, the body makes adjustments to keep the body from shutting down. Kidneys go into overdrive in an attempt to balance blood sugar levels, and excess sugar is excreted through urination. Aside from frequent trips to the bathroom, this process saps the body of water, leading to constant thirst.

 

Extreme Fatigue

There are a few factors that can lead to excessive fatigue in diabetics. Dehydration certainly doesn’t help. High blood sugar slows the circulation of blood, making it more difficult to distribute oxygen and vital nutrients throughout the body. On the other hand, blood that’s too low in sugar can’t provide cells the energy they need to properly function. All of these conditions result in feeling tired and sluggish.

 

Blurred Vision

Many people are unaware of the drastic effects that diabetes can have on the eyes. Water is pulled into the lens of the eye, causing swelling that leads to blurred vision. Balancing blood sugar levels can alleviate these symptoms. However, the longer blood sugar levels are off, the more blood vessels in the retina can weaken, effecting blood flow and leaking fluids. Over time, this can result in permanent blindness.

 

Cuts and Bruises

It’s not the presence of cuts and bruises that’s significant, but their failure to heal in a normal amount of time. A correlation between slow healing wounds and high blood sugar shows that diabetes hinders the body’s ability to heal itself effectively. Damaged blood vessels aren’t able to assist as much as they need to for recovery.

 

Hunger and Weight Loss

If blood sugar is too high, the body excretes sugar through urination, and the body loses calories in the process. In the case of low blood glucose, or if the body loses the ability to properly absorb sugar, constant hunger and rapid weight loss can arise.

 

Tingling or Numb Extremities

If your arms, legs, fingers or toes tingle or feel numb, you might have nerve damage resulting from diabetes. This results from the excessive blood sugar, slow blood flow, and inflammation associated with the disease.

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Study Finds High Blood Glucose Linked With Memory Loss http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/25/high-glucose-levels-worsen-memory/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/25/high-glucose-levels-worsen-memory/#comments Fri, 25 Oct 2013 17:48:49 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=487 continue reading]]> It has long been clear that blood glucose levels play an important role in all sorts of bodily functions, from head to toe. Those struggling with high blood sugar complain of symptoms from low energy, to excessive thirst, to dry skin and blurred vision. Effectively managing blood glucose levels can greatly improve one’s overall quality of life. Now, new research points to memory function as yet another area of health that can potentially be linked to blood sugar issues.

 

German researchers gathered 141 test subjects with an average age of 63 years old. None of the subjects had a history of memory problems, and none had been diagnosed with diabetes, or even prediabetes. The subjects were given memory tests and blood glucose tests. They also underwent brain scans to measure the size of their hippocampus, an area of the brain associated with short and long-term memory and with the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

 

The researchers found that those with higher blood glucose levels over extended periods of time had a more difficult time remembering large amounts of words. The findings weren’t necessarily surprising to the medical community, as it’s already been suspected that high blood sugar increases risk of dementia and makes recovery from a stroke more difficult, both neurological conditions. What the study does do is further the notion that high glucose levels keep the brain from functioning at the level it should.

 

Scientists were sure to note that while the research concludes an association between high blood sugar and lower memory function, it doesn’t quite explain the cause and effect relationships at play. While further testing will be needed, the medical community is hoping that future findings might show that lowering blood sugar over time can improve memory, or at least keep it from worsening.

 

What remain clear are the negative effects high blood glucose levels can have on health, and that the list of health problems affected by them will continue to grow. GlucoMiracle can help you manage blood sugar levels with its four powerful, pure and potent ingredients.

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Blood Glucose Levels and The Dawn Phenomenon http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/18/blood-glucose-levels-and-the-dawn-phenomenon/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/18/blood-glucose-levels-and-the-dawn-phenomenon/#comments Fri, 18 Oct 2013 18:39:23 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=478 continue reading]]> The body is an amazingly complex machine, constantly tweaking it’s chemistry and optimizing performance in whatever way it can. As those with unbalanced or unhealthy blood glucose levels know, sometimes the system malfunctions. The wide array of unhealthy substances in our diets and environments can make it difficult for the body to adjust. One natural and somewhat mysterious physiological process that clashes with blood sugar issues is known as the dawn phenomenon, or the dawn effect.

 

Everybody experiences the dawn phenomenon, usually somewhere between 4 am and 8 am. At this time, the body produces an assortment of hormones, including growth hormone, cortisol, catecholamines, glucagon, and epinephrine. They cause the liver to release a surge of glucose into the body, presumably to provide the proper amount of energy for a person to wake up from a deep sleep. The body responds by producing insulin to bring blood sugar back down to manageable levels.

 

For diabetics, however, this is a problem, as they either cannot produce insulin or are desensitized to it. The result can be a potentially dangerous rise in blood glucose levels that must be managed from the outside. In mild cases, a diabetic can calm the effects by eating a proper breakfast upon awakening. More serious cases might call for a dose of insulin in the middle of the night or just before bed. Eating closer to bedtime is sometimes advised as well, as the dawn phenomenon may be lessened if the body hasn’t been fasting as long.

 

For some, the dawn phenomenon is just another fascinating instance of physiological miracle in the human body. For others, it’s another nagging factor that needs to be closely monitored and compensated for.

 

GlucoMiracle can help you manage blood sugar levels with its four powerful, pure and potent ingredients.

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Tom Hanks Reveals He Has Diabetes http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/11/tom-hanks-diabetes/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/11/tom-hanks-diabetes/#comments Fri, 11 Oct 2013 18:29:12 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=468 continue reading]]>  

When dealing with diabetes, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. The disease affects people from all walks of life, and earlier this week, movie star Tom Hanks added his name to the list. In an interview on the “Late Show with David Letterman”, the famous actor revealed that he recently received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis from his doctor.

 

Hanks explained that he’s been struggling with high blood sugar levels for 20 years. High glucose levels are indeed recognized as a major precursor in the development of type 2 diabetes. It’s important to closely monitor diet and the affect it has on blood sugar to reduce potential risk. Engaging in physical activity can also help in maintaining healthier blood sugar levels that mitigate risk.

 

Hanks also highlighted the positive effects weight management can have, even after a diagnosis. He told of his doctor’s advice to return to teenage weight levels, and joked about how difficult that would be, seeing that he weighed only 96 lbs. in high school. All kidding aside, it has been shown that losing weight can alleviate the symptoms, and even reverse some effects, of type 2 diabetes. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is much more difficult to control, diet and exercise can greatly improve the condition of type 2 sufferers.

 

It’s now being suggested that Hanks’ fluctuating weight throughout life could have played a part in his present condition. He’s earned a great amount of respect for his serious approach to different roles, which sometimes involves losing or gaining a large amount of weight to lend authenticity to an acting performance. Steady weight levels encourage a better bodily response to insulin and blood sugar regulation.

 

The good news is that Hanks now appears healthy, and has a positive attitude about his condition. Hopefully, the high publicity of his announcement will help to raise awareness about the disease, and inspire those with high blood sugar to take their health seriously.

 

GlucoMiracle can help you manage high blood sugar levels with its four powerful, pure and potent ingredients.

 

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How Do Antioxidants Work? http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/05/how-do-antioxidants-work/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/05/how-do-antioxidants-work/#comments Sat, 05 Oct 2013 04:18:49 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=459 continue reading]]> Antioxidants are a hot topic in the natural health industry. Popular drinks claim to be stuffed full of antioxidants, while doctors and other health professionals constantly praise foods rich in them. How many people have actually taken the time to learn what they are, and why have such a sore need for them? Let us explain.

Let’s start with free radicals, another term that gets thrown around frequently. Free radicals are essentially molecules with an odd number of electrons. Chemistry 101 teaches that these free radicals will inevitable embark on a mission through our bodies to find a balancing electron. The problem with this process is that they damage otherwise healthy cells in the process. Moreover, while they are a natural byproduct of metabolism, other factors including pollution, radiation, and poor diets add an unhealthy dose of free radicals, leaving our bodies struggling to adjust.

This process of that produces harmful free radicals is referred to as oxidation, or oxidative stress. That rusty bicycle in your backyard is a result of oxidation. The rotting food you forgot to take out of the fridge and the fading paint on the outside of your home are also caused by oxidation. In humans, oxidation shows its effects through aging and the development of medical conditions and disease. In some cases, oxidation contributes to unhealthy blood glucose levels and the body’s inability to regulate insulin.

Given this information, the role of antioxidants should make perfect sense. As the name implies, antioxidants are molecules that combat oxidation, preventing the formation of free radicals and the chain reaction of damage they can cause. They support pancreas health, helping the organ produce insulin and properly regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that antioxidants can have these positive effects on individuals regardless of their age, sex, or health.

Curcuminoid, one of the four main ingredients found in GlucoMiracle, is a powerful antioxidant that comes from India. Along with gymnema, bitter melon, and chromium, curcumin can help you manage normal blood sugar levels.

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Monitoring Your Blood Glucose Levels http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/04/monitoring-your-blood-glucose-levels/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/04/monitoring-your-blood-glucose-levels/#comments Fri, 04 Oct 2013 04:17:23 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=457 continue reading]]> If you experience diabetes, you will be instructed by your doctor to monitor your blood glucose levels. Even if you do not experience diabetes, it is a good idea to monitor your blood sugar levels. To do this, you will need a blood glucose monitor, also referred to as a meter. Using the device to monitor your blood glucose levels could be a confusing task, but you can do it if you are willing to learn how to operate and understand the blood glucose monitor.

How the Monitor Works

When you use a blood glucose monitor, you can see your blood sugar results displayed on the screen after you have properly used the device. If you have diabetes, a blood sugar monitor will help you manage your blood sugar levels. The monitor is a small computerized device used to “read” your blood sugar levels.

Accuracy

According to the American Diabetes Association, medical experts find that most blood glucose monitors are accurate. In fact, when a meter is inaccurate, the individual operating the machine probably made an error. Some of the reasons why your blood glucose monitor could have an inaccurate reading include:

  • Your meter might not be clean. Dirty meters can affect the reading.
  • You could have used outdated test strips.
  • The blood glucose monitor might not be calibrated.
  • The drop of blood you used could be too small.

Benefits of Monitoring Your Blood Glucose Levels

Some of the benefits associated with monitoring your blood glucose levels include:

  • Preventing Blurred Vision or Blindness – Diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness for individuals who have high blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia.
  • Preventing Diabetic Neuropathy – Nerve damage could occur due to diabetes. If your nerve system is damaged, the way you hear, taste, smell, and see could be negatively affected. Your digestive tract could also be slowed down or stopped altogether.

Finding the Best Meter

When you look for a blood glucose meter, you will be surprised at the different types of devices that are available to you. For instance, monitors are available for individuals with bad eye-sight; these meters are easier to read. It is a good idea to keep a log of your blood glucose readings; there are some meters that help you do just that. These specific devices come with memory, which will store your results, allowing you to go back and check a reading at a later time.

The type of blood glucose monitor that you purchase is usually up to you, although there are times when a physician will instruct you to purchase a specific type of blood glucose meter, based on your health history. When you search for a blood glucose monitor, you should ask yourself a few questions, such as:

  • Is this meter easy for me to use?
  • Can I clean and maintain the meter easily?
  • Is this brand recommended? (Check online reviews for the brand before you make the purchase).
  • What special features does the device have?
  • Will I receive customer service support using the monitor after I have made the purchase?

Keep in mind that insurance companies may or may not pay for your blood glucose monitoring device; however, you still need to choose the meter that works the best for you, regardless of its cost. Do not put a price-tag on your health.

You do not need to be diagnosed with diabetes to monitor your blood glucose levels; in fact, you could possibly prevent diabetes if you monitor your blood sugar. Living a healthy and stress-free life could help you keep your blood glucose levels normal, and prevent other medical conditions such as kidney disease, heart attacks, strokes, seizures, and even death. It is beneficial to your body if you monitor your lifestyle, and your blood glucose levels!

References:

“Blood Glucose Meter: How to Choose.” Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blood-glucose-meter/MY00924. Accessed on September 27, 2013.

“Blood Glucose Meters.” American Diabetes Association. Retrieved from http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/blood-glucose-meters.html. Accessed on September 27, 2013.

“Monitoring Blood Sugar and Avoiding Diabetes Complications.” WebMD. Retrieved from http://diabetes.webmd.com/monitoring-blood-sugar-avoiding-diabetes-complications. Accessed on September 27, 2013.

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High Blood Sugar Levels and Diabetes http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/04/high-blood-sugar-levels-and-diabetes/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/10/04/high-blood-sugar-levels-and-diabetes/#comments Fri, 04 Oct 2013 04:15:56 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=455 continue reading]]> Although diabetes and high blood sugar might seem similar, the two are in fact different. If you are suffering from diabetes, your body is unable to metabolize your glucose levels; whereas, if you have high blood sugar, your glucose levels are too high. It is true that individuals with high blood sugar levels could suffer from diabetes, but that is not always the case. Try to keep your blood sugar levels as normal as possible to remain in good health, and prevent yourself from being diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

High Blood Sugar for Diabetics

Hyperglycemia is another term used for high blood sugar. If you have diabetes, you could experience episodes of hyperglycemia every now and then. There are different reasons why someone with diabetes might experience high blood glucose levels. For instance, if your doctor has prescribed a medication or supplement for you, that medication might not be enough to control your glucose levels. Check with your doctor if you need to adjust your dosage to help you lower your glucose levels. The food that you eat can also increase your blood sugar levels. Lack of exercise or very intense exercise could also affect your blood glucose levels. Practice a healthy lifestyle to prevent experiencing hyperglycemia.

Stress as well as non-diabetic medications could lead to hyperglycemia. Make appropriate lifestyle changes and adjustments in order to remain in good health. Those lifestyle changes include exercise, eating the best diabetic meals with plenty of raw vegetables and snacks, taking the medications or supplements prescribed or approved by your doctor, in addition to getting enough rest, and avoiding stress.

Our 4 Step Action plan can help you control your blood glucose levels. To learn about the 4 Step Action Plan for diabetics, click here.

Don’t Ignore the Symptoms

Look for symptoms of hyperglycemia. Some of the symptoms will occur immediately, while others will not take place as quickly. Those symptoms you will notice early-on include:

  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Increased Urination
  • Excessive Thirst
  • Blurred Vision

Some symptoms that may take longer to occur include:

  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Weakness
  • Fruity-Smelling Breath
  • Dry Mouth

There are other symptoms associated with hyperglycemia, and none of those symptoms should be ignored. If you have any of the symptoms, test your blood glucose levels immediately. You have the option to test your blood sugar levels at home, or you can visit your doctor to have a test administered.

To learn about blood glucose monitors, click here.

Treating Hyperglycemia

If you experience hyperglycemia, treat it immediately. Failing to treat this condition could lead to severe problems, including heart, kidney, nerve, and eye complications. You could also find yourself in a diabetic coma if you do not treat high blood sugar levels quickly. A diabetic coma is the result of your body being dehydrated, and your blood sugar levels rising too high. To learn more about diabetic comas, click here.

If hyperglycemia is left untreated, it could also cause seizures, or lead to death. You need to take care of your body to help control your blood glucose levels, so they can be as normal as possible. You can learn more about how to control high blood sugar levels by clicking here.

Take care of your body, whether you experience diabetes or not. If you have normal blood sugar levels, you could prevent various medical conditions, including diabetes simply by practicing a healthy lifestyle.

References:

“Hyperglycemia in Diabetes.” Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hyperglycemia/DS01168. Accessed on September 26, 2013.

Edelman, Steven, M.D. “What Causes High Blood Sugar and What Harm Can it do to my Body.” ABC News. Retrieved from http://abcnews.go.com/Health/DiabetesOverview/story?id=3843485. Accessed on September 26, 2013.

Kerns, Michelle. “Difference Between Diabetes & Hyperglycemia.” Livestrong. Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/275399-difference-between-diabetes-hyperglycemia/. Accessed on September 26, 2013.

“Diabetic Coma in Type 2 Diabetes.” WebMD. Retrieved from http://diabetes.webmd.com/guide/hyperglycemic-hyperosmolar-nonketonic-syndrome?redirect=%2fcontent%2farticle%2f46%2f1667_50948&_referer_=earthlink.webmd.com&orig_qs=. Accessed on September 27, 2013.

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How to Handle Low Blood Sugar Levels http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/25/how-to-handle-low-blood-sugar-levels/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/25/how-to-handle-low-blood-sugar-levels/#comments Wed, 25 Sep 2013 10:09:38 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=434 continue reading]]> You could try your hardest, but sometimes you might not keep your blood sugar levels from rising too high, or getting too low. When this happens, you will benefit from following some of the tips in this article to help control your blood sugar levels immediately.

If your blood sugar levels are low – typically below 70 mg/dL – you have hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar. If you are suffering from diabetes, it is common to have low blood sugar levels. Failing to control your blood sugar could lead to stroke, heart attack, and even death.

Causes

There are various issues that could cause low blood sugar levels, such as food intake and the amount of exercise you receive. The food you eat is necessary for energy; therefore, lack of food could lead to low blood glucose levels. If your body is unable to produce enough energy to function, the effect could be life-threatening.

Other causes of hypoglycemia include:

  • Alcohol use.
  • Metabolic problems.
  • Liver, kidney, or pancreas disease.
  • Certain surgical procedures, such as stomach surgery.
  • Reactions to certain medications.

Symptoms

Tests can be done to determine your blood glucose levels. Test your blood sugar levels as often as possible; doing so allows you to treat the issue before it becomes too serious.

Some of the low blood sugar symptoms include:

  • Sweating – Specifically Near the Back of Your Hairline
  • Restlessness
  • Personality Changes
  • Loss of Consciousness
  • Blurred Vision
  • Loss of Balance
  • Slight Nausea
  • Irritability
  • Headaches and Dizziness

The symptoms of hypoglycemia will vary from person-to-person. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, test blood glucose levels immediately.

Foods

If you are suffering from low blood sugar, you will need to eat foods and beverages that have a great deal of complex carbohydrates, as well as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. When you eat vegetables or fruits, make sure you eat them raw. Processed food is not good for your body, especially if you have diabetes.

Some of the foods that could prevent hypoglycemia are:

  • Nuts
  • Wheat Germ
  • Vinegar
  • Lemon Juice
  • Acidic Fruits
  • Artichokes
  • Celery

Do not skip meals; this could cause you to have low blood sugar levels. Carry snacks  with you to eat in case your blood sugar levels become too low.

How to Raise Blood Sugar Levels Quickly

There are some types of foods you can eat that have the potential to raise your blood sugar levels quickly. If you have a blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL, you should eat at least 15 grams of carbohydrates that contains sugar.

Here are some examples of what you should eat to raise your blood sugar levels quickly:

  • A tablespoon of honey or jam
  • One half-cup of regular fruit juice (do not drink diet or sugar free juice when you are trying to raise your blood sugar levels)
  • Three glucose tablets
  • 8 ounces of 1% milk or nonfat milk
  • Raisins – 2 tablespoons
  • Five to six pieces of hard candies, gumdrops, or jelly beans

Exercise

Exercise is a good way to lower your blood glucose levels, but you do not want those sugar levels to become too low. According to the Joslin Diabetes Center, when you exercise, you deplete your glycogen stores and sugar levels. To prevent this from happening, you will need to exercise less and at least two hours before you go to bed.

When you exercise, check your blood glucose levels before and after your workout. Intense workouts might lead to low blood sugar levels. To keep your blood sugar levels from dropping too low, you could

  • Increase the number of carbohydrates you eat before you exercise
  • Decrease the amount of insulin you take after exercise
  • Double the size of your bedtime snack after you have exercised
  • Do not drink alcohol before or after you exercise
  • Refrain from using hot tubs, saunas, or steam rooms after you have exercised

To prevent low glucose levels, eat a snack immediately following your workout. Make sure the snack contains at least 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Be Prepared

Always keep food or snacks with you if you experience low blood sugar levels. Remember to check your blood sugar levels often. For more information about testing your blood sugar levels, click here.

Consult your doctor to receive more information pertaining to low blood sugar levels, and methods or medications that can help you get those levels under control.

Give yourself the best chance to live a healthy life.

 References

“Hypoglycemia (Low blood glucose).” American Diabetes Association. Retrieved from http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hypoglycemia-low-blood.html. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

“When Your Blood Glucose is Too High or Too Low.” National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/type1and2/lowglucose.aspx. Accessed on September 8, 2013.

“Low Blood Sugar Basics.” Blood Sugar Basics. Retrieved from http://bloodsugarbasics.com/low-blood-sugar-basics. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

“Why is my Blood Glucose Sometimes Low After Physical Activity?” Joslin Diabetes Center. Retrieved from http://www.joslin.org/info/why_is_my_blood_glucose_sometimes_low_after_physical_activity.html. Accessed on September 8, 2013.

“Maintaining Blood Sugar: Foods to Quickly Lower Levels.” Fitday. Retrieved from http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/carbs/maintaining-blood-sugar-foods-to-quickly-lower-levels.html. Accessed on September 8, 2013.

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How to Handle High Blood Sugar Levels http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/25/how-to-handle-high-blood-sugar-levels/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/25/how-to-handle-high-blood-sugar-levels/#comments Wed, 25 Sep 2013 10:07:18 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=431 continue reading]]> Maintaining normal blood sugar levels could prove to be a difficult task, but it is a task that must be done in order to control or prevent diabetes. The technical term for high blood sugar is hyperglycemia. If your body cannot properly use the insulin it produces, or if your body produces too little insulin, you have high blood glucose.

You would benefit by maintaining healthy blood glucose levels; failing to do so could lead to serious complications, such as heart attack, stroke, or even death.

Causes of Hyperglycemia

You could suffer from high blood sugar if your body is unable to produce enough insulin. Hyperglycemia could also occur when your body produces insulin, but rejects it. The sugar in your body has a job – it needs to move through your body and cells. Even though the body is rejecting the insulin, the liver will continue to produce sugar; too much sugar in the body could lead to high blood glucose levels.

Some causes of high blood sugar are:

  • Emotional stress (related to everyday life – your family or job).
  • Failing to take prescribed medication.
  • Lack of proper physical activity.
  • Insufficient diet.
  • The stress that comes from medical illnesses.

Symptoms

If you are suffering from high blood sugar, you may experience various symptoms. Some of those symptoms include:

  • Increased Appetite
  • Dry Skin
  • Weight Loss
  • Excessive Urination
  • Dry Mouth
  • Increased Fatigue
  • Vomiting

It is a good idea to test your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, even if you do not have any symptoms. This could help you prevent diabetes and other serious medical conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, you will need to test your blood glucose levels immediately.

Controlling Your Diet

To keep your blood sugar levels normal, you should eat a well-balanced diet. Cinnamon has the ability to improve your blood sugar levels, and possibly prevent you from being at risk for diabetes. Unsweetened oatmeal is another food that could help you control your blood sugar levels.

Foods low in carbohydrates and high in fiber are good for your diet. Bitter gourd, broccoli, green beans, and spinach are good foods to eat to lower your blood glucose levels. Add as many fresh vegetables to your diet as you can possibly eat. Remember to control your meal portions in order to keep your blood sugar levels normal.

Eat plenty of raw and cooked vegetables, but eat starchy vegetables such as potatoes and lima beans in moderation. According to WebMD, starchy vegetables have the ability to raise your blood sugar levels. Large portions of starchy vegetables could be bad for your health.

Drinking water can help you if you have high blood sugar levels. If you drink two glasses of water immediately – at least 8 ounces each – and a third glass of water five minutes later, you can dilute your blood and flush the sugar out of your bloodstream.

Exercise

If your blood sugar levels are high, exercise could help lower them. When you exercise, it is good to check your blood glucose levels before and after you exercise. The less intense your workout is, the better. Moderate exercise could help you decrease high blood sugar levels, but intense workouts might lead to low blood sugar levels.

Keep in mind that there are some instances when exercise could be dangerous. For example, if your blood sugar levels are above 240 mg/dL, the American Diabetes Association suggests you check your urine for ketones. Ketone is a chemical that is produced when you have a shortage of insulin. Your body will break down fat to use for energy. You could purchase a ketone test from your local pharmacy. If you take the test and notice ketones, refrain from exercising, and consult with a physician.

Do not Stress

Try not to panic when you have high blood sugar levels. Stress is bad for individuals with hyperglycemia. Instead of stressing, remain calm and use some of the tips below. When you encounter stress, walk away from the situation or person. You could

  • Take deep breaths
  • Go for a walk
  • Drink chamomile tea

Remember that stressful situations could cause your blood sugar to rise because of the hormones that are released. Keep calm, even if your blood sugar level is high, because stressing will cause it to rise even higher.

It is important that you treat high blood sugar levels; failing to treat hyperglycemia could lead to nerve damage, skin infections, gastrointestinal problems, as well as other medical issues. If you keep your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, you could prevent complications that are associated with diabetes and continue to live a healthy life.

References

“When Your Blood Glucose is Too High or Too Low.” National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/type1and2/lowglucose.aspx. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

“Hyperglycemia (High blood glucose).” American Diabetes Association. Retrieved from http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/hyperglycemia.html. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

“Diabetic Diet: 6 Foods that May Help Control Blood Sugar.” WebMD. Retrieved from http://diabetes.webmd.com/features/diabetic-diet-6-foods-control-blood-sugar. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

“Checking for Ketones.” American Diabetes Association. Retrieved from http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/checking-for-ketones.html. Accessed on September 23, 2013.

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All About Glucose http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/16/all-about-glucose/ http://www.glucomiracle.com/2013/09/16/all-about-glucose/#comments Mon, 16 Sep 2013 04:34:20 +0000 http://www.glucomiracle.com/?p=415 continue reading]]> Blood glucose is also known as blood sugar. This sugar travels through your body and supplies your cells with energy. The sugar in your body comes from the foods that you eat, and that sugar is transformed into energy. Your body relies on your blood sugar to function, which means your glucose levels should not be too low, or too high.

Testing your blood glucose levels help determine what treatments are working, and it could help you avoid long-term diabetes complications.

Types of Glucose Tests

There are different types of blood glucose tests that you could take. These tests will be used based on a patient-by-patient and scenario-by-scenario basis. The most common blood glucose tests include:

  • Glycohemoglobin A1c Test – Normally used to determine if you have diabetes, or to determine if your diabetes treatment has been effective for the past 2 to 3 months.
  • 2-Hour Postprandial Blood Sugar Test – Taken 2 hours after you have eaten your meal. This is to test your blood sugar levels, but it is not used to diagnose you with diabetes.
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – Women who are pregnant typically take this test to determine if they have gestational diabetes. It could also be taken to diagnose diabetes or pre-diabetes.
  • Fasting Blood Sugar Test – You take this test to determine if you have diabetes, or pre-diabetes. You will need to fast for at least 8 hours before you can take this test.
  • Random Blood Sugar Test – This test is used to determine if your blood sugar levels are normal. This test can be taken at various times throughout the day, but it is not used to diagnose diabetes.

Self-Tests

Self-tests are also available. You will use a portable monitor device to test your blood glucose levels. These tests require a small drop of your blood in order to determine your blood sugar levels. Even though you are able to administer self-tests at home, your doctor will advise you on how often you should take these tests. Always remember to wash your hands before you check your blood glucose level.

Purpose of Blood Glucose Tests

You will need to have your blood glucose levels tested to see if you have diabetes. There are also tests that could determine if you are at risk for diabetes. To learn more about the different types of diabetes, click here.

Blood glucose tests not only detect diabetes, but these tests could help you monitor your blood sugar levels. Blood glucose tests have the ability to:

  • Determine if your diabetes treatment is effective
  • Give you better knowledge of how your diet and exercise is impacting your blood sugar levels
  • Determine if stress or illness is affecting your blood sugar levels
  • Monitor your prescribed medication, and determine if it is working effectively

Target Levels

When you monitor your blood sugar levels, there are targets that your test results should be in range of. Those targets will vary, based on your age, pregnancy status, diabetes complications and type, in addition to your overall health. Some of the target levels for individuals with diabetes should be:

  • Between 90 and 130 mg/dL after you have fasted for at least 8 hours
  • Less than 180 mg/dL between 1 and 2 hours after your meals
  • Between 70 and 130 mg/dL before your meals

Keeping a Log

When you test your blood glucose levels at home, you should keep a log. Your doctor will need to see this log to determine how well your body is responding to the diabetic treatment plan that has been provided for you.

References:

“Blood Glucose.” WebMD. Retrieved from http://diabetes.webmd.com/blood-glucose. Accessed on September 8, 2013.

“Blood Sugar Testing: When, why and how.” Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/blood-sugar/DA00007. September 8, 2013.

“Checking Your Blood Glucose.” American Diabetes Association. Retrieved from http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/checking-your-blood-glucose.html. Accessed on September 8, 2013.

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