Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Managing Blood Sugar Levels

Blood glucose, commonly known as blood sugar, serves as the primary energy source for the human body. The term "blood sugar level" refers to the concentration of glucose in the bloodstream.

Glucose is absorbed from the intestines into the bloodstream with the help of insulin, which enables blood cells to utilize it effectively. Typically, the lowest blood sugar levels occur in the early morning before meals, rising after eating and peaking within a couple of hours. Maintaining levels within a healthy range is vital, as prolonged deviations can lead to serious health risks. Regular monitoring is essential for health management.

The global standard for measuring blood sugar is millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Blood Sugar Imbalances and Their Impact

Blood sugar levels outside the normal range are considered abnormal and fall into two categories:

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar): Occurs when blood glucose exceeds normal limits, often associated with diabetes and increased risk of heart disease.

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Happens when blood glucose drops below normal, leading to weakness, disorientation, or even insulin shock if untreated. Both conditions are dangerous and require prompt attention.

While many factors influence blood glucose levels, staying within healthy ranges is crucial for overall health. For non-diabetic individuals, fasting blood glucose should be between 3.9 and 5.5 mmol/L. Blood sugar levels tend to fluctuate during the day. Diabetics are advised to keep pre-meal levels between 5.0 and 7.2 mmol/L and post-meal levels below 10 mmol/L. Lifestyle choices like regular exercise, balanced carbohydrate intake, hydration, and a nutritious diet help manage blood sugar effectively. Incorporating fiber-rich foods, leafy greens, nuts, and green tea into daily meals is beneficial. Routine checkups and continuous blood sugar monitoring are vital, especially for those diagnosed with diabetes.