HIGH BLOOD SUGAR | Health Status | Essential4Health
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Get Healthy ~ Stay Healthy

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HIGH BLOOD SUGAR

Description

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, occurs when the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream surpasses normal levels. This condition is commonly associated with diabetes but can also occur due to other factors. Symptoms of high blood sugar may include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. Uncontrolled high blood sugar over extended periods can lead to serious complications, such as damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs. Monitoring blood sugar levels through regular testing is crucial for individuals with diabetes to manage and prevent hyperglycemia. Lifestyle modifications, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, play a pivotal role in controlling blood sugar levels. Education on self-management strategies empowers individuals to make informed decisions in their daily lives to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

Body System

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[6] Kianbakht S, Hashem Dabaghian F. Improved glycemic control and lipid profile in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients consuming Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract: A randomized placebo. Controlled clinical trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2013, Vol 21, Issue 5, pp 441-446.
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Dietary & Other Supplements

1. Probiotics: Beyond supporting heart health and aiding in metabolism control, probiotics show promise in improving markers like HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) and fasting insulin in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Plant Extracts

1. Berberine: Berberine directly lowers liver glucose production (gluconeogenesis), impacting fasting blood glucose. This is tied to its influence on cellular energy structures (mitochondria), suggesting potential for improved glucose metabolism independently of insulin.

2. Cinnamon: Cinnamon supports the storage of glycogen, a form of stored glucose, and influences glycogen synthesis, enhancing insulin sensitivity and promoting increased glucose intake by cells.

3. Aloe Vera Juice: Shows potential in effectively reducing levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. It also increases HDL cholesterol levels in prediabetic and early non-treated diabetic patients.

Natural Compounds

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

Complementary & Alternative Treatments

No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.

Symptoms & Signs

Causes

Insulin Resistance, Diabetes, Diet, Lifestyle, High Cholesterol

Books That You May Want To Read

How Nutrients Function

Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.


Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed. They support gut health, immune function, and oral hygiene by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens.

Podcast Episodes To Listen To

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Lectures To Learn From

Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider

References

Additional Support Options

Things To Do

For hyperglycemia, it is recommended to:


  • follow a whole-foods-based eating regimen that consists of a large range of fresh, non-starchy vegetables, fruit low in glycemic index, meat, fish, and healthy fats.

  • follow a low-carbohydrate diet.

  • Eat fiber-rich, non-starchy vegetables that improve blood sugar control. Have a large serving of vegetables with every meal.

  • Consume healthy fats, such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil, grass-fed or organic butter, ghee, avocados, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, tahini, etc.

  • Drink a lot of mineral water.

  • consume moderate [3–4 cups] amounts of coffee. Coffee contains chromium and other minerals that can help improve insulin sensitivity.

  • Eat GI-low fruit, such as berries, cherries, grapefruit, etc.

  • consume moderate amounts of full-fat dairy products.

  • Go gluten-free if you can. Gluten contributes to the development of 'leaky gut', which usually precedes the development of diabetes.

  • Use sugar substitutes, such as stevia, monk fruit powder, erythritol, xylitol, etc.

  • In baking, opt for almond flour, coconut flour, chickpea flour, etc.


Other recommendations include:


  • Try intermittent fasting. It can help regulate blood glucose levels.

  • get regular exercise.

  • get enough quality sleep.

  • Spend time outdoors in a green area to get some fresh air.

  • reduce stress through the practice of yoga, meditation, or mindfulness.

  • lose excess weight.

  • carefully read product labels to screen for carbohydrates, sugar, trans fats, and hydrogenated oils.

Things To Avoid

For high blood sugar levels, it is advisable to avoid the following:

  • foods high in carbohydrates, such as starchy vegetables, processed, junk, and fast foods, deep-fired foods, refined carbohydrates found in breads, pastas, pizzas, baked goods, etc.

  • sugar, desserts, candy, sweet drinks, processed, and packaged items.

  • Watch out for low-fat products. Their low content of fat is often substituted with added carbohydrates.

  • alcohol, which is high in carbohydrates.

  • dried fruits, which are high in sugar.

  • honey, maple syrup, agave syrup, etc.

  • fruit juices, both packaged and freshly squeezed. They are devoid of fiber and high in sugar.

  • fruits high in sugar, such as canteloupe, bananas, grapes, etc.

Furthermore, avoid:

  • smoking, which impacts insulin sensitivity.

  • sedentary lifestyle.

  • physical inactivity.

  • chronic stress.

  • environmental pollutants, such as pesticides and heavy metals. They affect insulin regulation in the body.

  • too little sleep.

  • social isolation and a lack of human relationships.

Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide

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