Blood sugar refers to the glucose content in the blood and is one of the main energy sources required by the body to maintain normal physiological functions.
Glucose is broken down from carbohydrates in food and then transported to various cells in the body through the blood to supply energy.
Under normal circumstances, insulin helps cells absorb and utilize glucose in the blood and maintain blood sugar balance.
Fasting blood sugar levels should typically be between 70 and 130 mg/dL, while blood sugar levels two hours after a meal should not exceed 180 mg/dL.
Normal blood sugar levels help prevent diabetes and other metabolic diseases while maintaining the normal functioning of various body systems.
How to check blood sugar?
A blood glucose test involves drawing a small sample of blood to measure the glucose concentration in it.
This can be done with a home glucose meter or with a professional blood test at a medical facility.
Home blood glucose meters provide a convenient and fast way to monitor, while tests in medical institutions are more accurate, and doctors can provide patients with more specific treatment recommendations
based on these data.
The dangers of high blood sugar
High blood sugar can cause a variety of health problems.
First, it can cause damage to blood vessels and the nervous system, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and neuropathy.
Secondly, high blood sugar may cause kidney damage and cause diabetic nephropathy.
Vision problems, a compromised immune system, and slow wound healing are also common effects of high blood sugar.
The 4 Best Drinks to Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Green tea
Rich in antioxidants, which help increase cell sensitivity to insulin.
Water
Drinking enough water helps dilute the glucose in the blood and helps the kidneys eliminate excess glucose.
Lemon water
Rich in vitamin C, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Bitter melon juice
Contains some substances that can mimic the function of insulin and help lower blood sugar.
what is diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease, divided into type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is caused by the immune system attacking the insulin-producing islet cells of the pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes is caused by the body’s resistance to insulin.
How to prevent diabetes
The key to preventing diabetes is adopting a healthy lifestyle.
First, maintain an appropriate weight and control it through healthy eating and moderate exercise.
Secondly, conduct regular physical examinations, especially for people with a family history of diabetes.
Avoiding excessive intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol are also effective ways to prevent diabetes.
6 Ways to Lower Blood Sugar
1. Eat healthily
Choose low-GI foods, including whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein.
2. Moderate exercise
Regular aerobic exercise can improve the sensitivity of cells to insulin.
3. Control weight
Maintain appropriate weight and reduce insulin resistance.
4. Monitor blood sugar regularly
Adjust diet and treatment plan in time to keep blood sugar stable.
5. Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can help control blood sugar.
6. Control stress
Long-term stress may cause blood sugar fluctuations and increase the risk of diabetes.