Blood sugar levels can rise due to several factors, including dietary choices, lack of physical activity, stress, illness or infection, and insufficient insulin or medication. Consuming high-carbohydrate foods and sugary drinks leads to quick spikes in blood sugar. Being sedentary reduces insulin sensitivity, causing higher blood sugar levels. Stress triggers hormones that increase blood sugar, while illness and infections prompt the body to release glucose for energy. For those with diabetes, missing doses or incorrect dosages of insulin or medication can result in elevated blood sugar. Managing these factors through diet, exercise, stress management, and proper medication adherence is essential for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar or blood glucose is an important substance in our body, which is our main source of energy. It is important to control the amount of sugar in the blood because its excess or low amount can be harmful to our health. Below is a detailed discussion about blood sugar:
How is sugar produced in the blood?
- Through food :
- When we eat carbohydrate-rich foods, our body digests them and converts them into glucose. This glucose is carried throughout the body through the bloodstream.
- The main carbohydrate-rich foods are rice, bread, potatoes, pasta, fruit, milk, and sugar.
- Liver and muscles :
- The liver stores a compound called glycogen, which is converted to glucose and released into the blood when needed.
- Muscles also store glycogen, which is mainly used during various body activities.
Blood sugar control
- Insulin :
- A hormone secreted by the pancreas that controls blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels rise after a meal, insulin is released and it moves glucose into cells, where it is used for energy.
- Glucagon :
- Another hormone secreted by the pancreas that helps increase blood glucose levels. When blood glucose levels drop, glucagon is secreted and it converts glycogen in the liver into glucose and releases it into the blood.
Blood sugar problems
- Diabetes :
- Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly, resulting in high blood glucose levels. It is mainly of two types:
- Type 1 diabetes: The pancreas produces little or no insulin.
- Type 2 diabetes: The body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin.
- Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly, resulting in high blood glucose levels. It is mainly of two types:
- Hypoglycemia :
- This happens when blood glucose levels drop too low. This is usually caused by taking too much insulin or other medications during diabetes treatment.
Blood sugar measurement method
- Fasting blood sugar test :
- The fasting blood glucose level is measured. This test is usually done after you have not eaten for 8 hours.
- Random blood sugar test :
- The amount of blood glucose is measured at any given time.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)Â :
- First, the blood glucose level is measured on an empty stomach, then the blood glucose level is measured again after drinking a certain amount of glucose-rich drink.
Ways to control blood sugar
- Healthy eating habits :
- Eat a balanced diet, a carbohydrate-controlled diet, and foods rich in adequate protein and fiber.
- Regular exercise :
- You should exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, such as walking, running, or swimming.
- Medications and insulin :
- Medicines and insulin should be taken as per the doctor’s advice.
- Regular blood sugar measurement :
- Blood glucose levels should be measured regularly to keep it under control.
Controlling blood sugar levels is very important for a healthy and normal life. It is possible to easily keep blood sugar under control by following proper diet, regular exercise, and living according to doctors’ advice.
