High blood sugar or glucose levels are usually a sign of diabetes or pre- diabetes. This is a medical condition in which the body loses the proper amount or function of a hormone called insulin, causing the amount of glucose in the blood to increase. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. In addition, some women may develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, which is called gestational diabetes.
Who have High blood Sugar
The infographic identifies ten types of people at higher risk of high blood sugar: those with a family history of diabetes, high LDL cholesterol, or hypertension; individuals who are overweight or obese; people who lack physical activity; older adults, especially those over 45; individuals experiencing excessive stress; women with hormonal changes like polycystic ovarian syndrome; people with poor diets high in sugar and processed foods; those exhibiting symptoms of diabetes such as excessive thirst and frequent urination; individuals in the early stages of diabetes (pre-diabetes); and people with other conditions like cardiovascular diseases or hypertension.
Now, let’s discuss the main reasons for an increase in blood sugar levels:
1. Genetic Factors
- Family history: If someone in your family has diabetes, then you are at higher risk of developing diabetes. Genetic factors are a major cause of diabetes.
- LDL cholesterol and hypertension (high blood pressure): Having a family history of high blood pressure or high cholesterol increases the risk of developing diabetes.
2. Overweight & Obesity
- People who are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing diabetes. In particular, those who accumulate more belly fat may have higher blood glucose levels.
- A body mass index (BMI) of 25 or more increases the risk of diabetes.
3. Lack of Physical Activity
- People who do not exercise or engage in regular physical activity may experience increased blood sugar levels. Physical activity improves the body’s insulin function and keeps blood glucose levels under control.
- Eating soda, fast food, and processed foods can cause the body to metabolize sugar quickly, which can lead to diabetes.
4. Age
- The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age. People aged 45 and over are generally more likely to develop diabetes.
- As we age, the body’s ability to produce and use insulin decreases.
5. Excessive stress
- Stress or tension can also increase blood sugar levels. When the body is stressed, a hormone called cortisol is released, which increases the production of glucose.
6. Hormonal Changes
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) : Women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome are also at higher risk of developing diabetes.
- Gestational diabetes: During pregnancy, some women experience an increase in blood sugar levels. This occurs naturally and usually resolves after the baby is born. However, those who develop gestational diabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
7. Poor Diet
- Eating too much sugar, processed foods, snacks, fast food, etc. can increase blood glucose levels.
- In particular, consuming excessive amounts of carbohydrates causes glucose levels to rise rapidly and the body’s insulin cannot function at the required level.
8. Symptoms of Diabetes
When blood sugar levels increase, various symptoms occur, such as:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Excessive body weight
- Destroyed fever
- Slow healing of wounds or cuts
9. Early stage of diabetes (Pre-diabetes)
- In the early stages (pre-diabetes), glucose levels are higher than normal, but do not reach the stage of diabetes. In this condition, diabetes can be prevented through lifestyle changes such as healthy eating and physical activity.
10. Other Conditions
- Cardiovascular Diseases: People with heart disease are at higher risk of diabetes.
- Hypertension: Diabetes is associated with high blood pressure problems.
Prevention and treatment
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important to prevent diabetes. This includes:
- Eating right and healthy food
- Regular exercise
- Keeping weight under control
- Stress management
- Checking blood sugar levels regularly
Insulin and oral medications are commonly used to treat diabetes. Insulin is essential for type 1 diabetes, but lifestyle changes and medications can be used for type 2 diabetes.
Therefore, it is very important for people who are at risk of these diseases to control their blood sugar levels. Regular medical advice and lifestyle modifications are important.
