High blood sugar, medically known as hyperglycemia, occurs when the sugar or glucose level in your blood exceeds the normal range.
This can occur for several reasons, including an unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, certain medical conditions, and medication.
Subsequently, high blood sugar can cause serious health complications if left uncontrolled for an extended period, including nerve damage, kidney problems, and cardiovascular disease.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about high blood sugar, including its definition, manifestations, prevention, and foods to avoid.
Understanding High Blood Sugar
Your body requires insulin, the hormone produced by your pancreas, to transport glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it is used for energy.
When your pancreas fails to produce adequate insulin or your body becomes insulin resistant, excess glucose remains in your bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar.
According to the American Diabetes Association, high blood sugar is defined as a blood glucose level of 180 mg/dL or higher, two hours after eating. However, ideal fasting blood glucose levels (before eating) should fall between 80 to 130 mg/dL.
Factors Contributing to High Blood Sugar
Several factors can contribute to high blood sugar. Below are some of the major factors:
1. Poor nutrition
Consuming a diet that is high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates can increase your risk of high blood sugar.
2. Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of physical activity, which can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance, is a significant risk factor for developing high blood sugar.
3. Certain medical conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as pancreatic cancer, Cushing's syndrome, or pancreatic trauma, can damage the pancreas, leading to decreased insulin production and, consequently, increased blood sugar levels.
4. Medications
Certain medications, including steroids, blood pressure medication, and antidepressants, can increase blood sugar levels.
Manifestations of High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar can cause a wide range of symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. Below are some of the major manifestations of high blood sugar:
1. Increased thirst
High blood sugar can lead to dehydration, triggering thirst.
2. Frequent urination
When your blood sugar level is high, your kidneys attempt to remove excess glucose from your blood by excreting it in your urine.
3. Blurred vision
High blood sugar can cause swelling of the lens of your eyes, leading to blurred vision.
4. Fatigue
High blood sugar can prevent glucose from entering your cells, causing your body to be deprived of energy.
5. Slow healing wounds
High blood sugar can decrease your body's ability to fight infections, leading to slow wound healing.
Understanding High Blood Sugar
Prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, you can prevent high blood sugar by making simple lifestyle changes, including the following:
1. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood sugar levels, and control weight.
2. Healthy Eating
Consuming a healthy diet and avoiding foods that are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates can significantly reduce your risk of developing high blood sugar.
3. Maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and healthy eating habits can reduce your risk of developing high blood sugar.
4. Check Blood Sugar Levels Regularly
Regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels can help you identify high levels early before they cause further damage.
Foods to Avoid in High Blood Sugar
Diet is a crucial component in managing high blood sugar. Consuming certain foods can cause a spike in your blood sugar level, leading to severe health complications.
Below are some of the foods to avoid in high blood sugar:
1. Refined Carbohydrates
Foods that contain refined carbohydrates, including white bread, pasta, and sugary drinks, can cause a quick spike in your blood sugar level.
2. Sugar-sweetened Beverages
Sugar-sweetened drinks can cause your blood sugar to shoot up quickly.
3. Fatty Cuts of Meat
Fatty meats, such as beef, pork, and lamb, can raise blood sugar levels.
4. Processed Foods
Processed foods often contain high amounts of sugar and unhealthy fats and can contribute to high blood sugar.
5. Sweetened Yogurt
Yogurt, especially flavored or sweetened yogurt, can contain high amounts of sugar, which can cause a spike in your blood sugar level.
In conclusion, high blood sugar is a serious medical condition that requires attention and care.
Making simple lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and monitoring blood sugar levels, can prevent the onset of this condition.
Furthermore, avoiding foods that can cause a spike in your blood sugar level is critical in controlling high blood sugar.
By adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can keep your blood sugar in check and prevent long-term health complications.
