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Blood Sugar

Understanding your blood sugar

By Al Rauf OkalPublished about a year ago Updated 12 months ago 3 min read
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Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is the main type of sugar that is found in the blood. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body's cells, and it is particularly important for the brain, which relies on glucose for its energy needs.

The body tightly regulates blood sugar levels to ensure that they remain within a healthy range. When we eat carbohydrates, the body breaks them down into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps to transport glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, where it can be used for energy.

If blood sugar levels become too high (hyperglycaemia), this can be a sign of diabetes or other health conditions. Symptoms of high blood sugar may include frequent urination, thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of wounds. On the other hand, if blood sugar levels become too low (hypoglycaemia), this can cause symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, confusion, and even unconsciousness.

Recommended Blood Sugar Level

Maintaining normal blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health, as high or low levels can cause a range of health problems.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) provides guidelines for recommended blood sugar levels based on various factors such as age, health status, and presence of diabetes. The ADA recommends the following blood sugar levels:

1. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS): This is the blood sugar level after a period of fasting, usually for at least 8 hours. For healthy individuals, a normal FBS level should be between 70-99 mg/dL. For people with diabetes, the recommended FBS level is between 80-130 mg/dL.

2. Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS): This is the blood sugar level 2 hours after eating. For healthy individuals, a normal PPBS level should be below 140 mg/dL. For people with diabetes, the recommended PPBS level is below 180 mg/dL.

3. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C): This is a test that measures the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. For healthy individuals, a normal HbA1C level should be below 5.7%. For people with diabetes, the recommended HbA1C level is below 7%.

It is important to note that blood sugar levels can vary depending on various factors such as stress, illness, physical activity, and medication. It is also important to regularly monitor blood sugar levels for people with or without diabetes, as high or low levels can cause long-term complications such as kidney damage, nerve damage, and cardiovascular disease.

In addition to monitoring blood sugar levels, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking can help maintain normal blood sugar levels. For people with diabetes, medication such as insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents may also be necessary to control blood sugar levels.

The management of blood sugar, or blood glucose, is important for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.

Some strategies for managing blood sugar:

1. Diet: A healthy diet is essential for managing blood sugar. This includes eating a balanced diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It's also important to limit the intake of processed and high-sugar foods.

2. Exercise: Regular exercise can help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

3. Medications: For individuals with diabetes, medications such as insulin or oral medications may be necessary to help manage blood sugar levels. It's important to take these medications as prescribed and to monitor blood sugar levels regularly.

4. Blood sugar monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels can help individuals with diabetes adjust their diet, exercise, and medication as needed to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

5. Stress management: Stress can raise blood sugar levels, so finding ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques, can be helpful.

6. Sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for managing blood sugar levels. Lack of sleep can lead to insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels.

In summary, blood sugar levels vary depending on factors such as age, health status, and presence of diabetes. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes can help maintain normal blood sugar levels and prevent long-term complications. It's important to work with a healthcare provider to develop an individualized plan for managing blood sugar levels.

Yours truly,

Al Rauf Okal

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About the Creator

Al Rauf Okal

Do you love your body? I am an enthusiast of healthy living. I’ll be sharing on ways of living healthy. We got to enjoy life and make the best out of it. Make a point to subscribe, support and give reviews.

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