Understanding Blood Sugar: How to Take Control of Your Health

One of my passions is helping people understand and focus on healthy blood sugar levels. I believe it's not discussed enough and understood well enough throughout the world. Because of the increasing incidence of diabetes and its associated health complications it is vital we discuss how to protect ourselves from the effects. Diabetes is a major public health issue and is becoming more prevalent in adults worldwide. It is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, and amputations. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 537 million people are currently living with diabetes all over the world. By 2045, projections show this number rising to some 783 million diabetics globally. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death globally. With the increasing incidence of diabetes and its associated health complications, my focus is educating everyone on the importance of healthy blood sugar levels for adults so we can prevent, delay and manage diabetes. I focus on the health of the individual and the importance of healthy lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, healthy diet, and weight management, as well as early detection and management of diabetes.

A healthy blood sugar level for most adults is between 70 to 99 mg/dL when fasting and less than 140 mg/dL after meals. These levels can vary depending on factors such as the time of day and the individual's overall health. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for overall health and well-being. Unhealthy habits and poor diet can lead to diabetes, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition as stated above. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of healthy blood sugar levels, how unhealthy habits and poor diet can cause weight gain which can lead to diabetes. I’ll also discuss ways to mitigate the risk of developing them.

So, what is diabetes? Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It occurs when the body is unable to produce or properly use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors, such as unhealthy habits and poor diet.

Unhealthy habits and poor diet can lead to diabetes by causing weight gain and obesity, which can contribute to insulin resistance. Consuming large amounts of processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats can also contribute to the development of diabetes. Additionally, a lack of physical activity can also lead to diabetes, as it can cause weight gain and a decrease in insulin sensitivity.

To mitigate the risk of developing diabetes, it is important to adopt healthy habits and a balanced diet. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help control blood sugar levels and prevent weight gain. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise at least five days a week, can also help prevent diabetes. Additionally, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Blood sugar is vital to good health as it provides the energy needed for the body's cells to function properly. When blood sugar levels are too high or too low, it can cause a wide range of health problems, such as fatigue, blurred vision, and even organ damage. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for preventing diabetes and other serious health conditions.

Keeping and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for your overall health and well-being. Unhealthy habits and poor diet can lead to weight gain and eventually diabetes. By adopting healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, and limiting unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, individuals can reduce their risk of developing diabetes. Healthy blood sugar levels are so vital to every individual that it cannot be discussed enough. 537 million people is not a small number. It’s increasing daily. I’m an advocate for a long healthy life for all people. See your medical provider to see if you are at risk. One person at a time can start to change this epidemic. Be the change and honor your body.