What is blood sugar level?
Blood sugar , also known as blood glucose, refers to the concentration of glucose in the blood. Glucose is an essential source of energy obtained from the carbohydrates we eat. After meals, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then transported to cells through the bloodstream. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by helping glucose enter cells where it can be used for energy.
Measuring blood sugar
Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial, especially for people with diabetes, to keep their glucose levels within a healthy range. This can be done with a glucometer or a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. Here's a detailed guide to monitoring blood sugar with a glucometer:
- Preparation: Make sure you have all the necessary materials at hand: a glucometer, test strips, a lancet, and an alcohol wipe.
- Hand Washing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to remove dirt and substances that may affect the measurement.
- Pricking: Make a small prick on the side of your finger with the lancet. This area is less painful than the fingertip.
- Collecting blood: Place a drop of blood on the test strip inserted in the glucometer.
- Reading: Wait a few seconds and read the results on the glucometer. Record the values and the time of the measurement in a logbook for future reference.
Blood sugar too low
Low blood sugar, also called hypoglycemia, occurs when blood sugar drops below 4 mmol/L. This can have several causes, such as skipping meals, taking too much insulin or other diabetes medication, intense physical activity, or drinking alcohol without adequate food intake.
Symptoms of low blood sugar
Symptoms of hypoglycemia can come on quickly and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Sweating: Excessive sweating, even in a cool environment.
- Trembling: Shaking or trembling of hands and body.
- Hunger: Sudden, intense hunger.
- Confusion: Difficulty concentrating or confusion.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
- Palpitations: Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Treatment for low blood sugar
Prompt treatment of hypoglycemia is crucial to prevent more serious complications. This can be achieved by:
- Intake of fast sugars: Take 15-20 grams of fast carbohydrates such as glucose tablets , a glass of fruit juice or a teaspoon of sugar.
- Repeat measurement: Measure the blood sugar level after 15 minutes to check whether it is back within the normal range.
- Eat a balanced meal: Once blood sugar levels have stabilized, eat a meal or snack with protein and complex carbohydrates to prevent further drops.
Normal blood sugar
A normal blood sugar level usually ranges between 4 and 8 mmol/L, depending on the time of day and the last meal. Here are some guidelines:
- Fasting: 4-5.6 mmol/L
- Two hours after a meal: Less than 7.8 mmol/L
Maintaining normal blood sugar levels is essential to prevent complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems.
Blood sugar too high
High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can occur due to insufficient insulin production or inefficient insulin use by the body. This can lead to chronic conditions such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Hyperglycemia can be caused by several factors, including:
- Insufficient medication: Not taking enough insulin or other diabetes medication.
- Unhealthy diet: Consumption of too much sugar and refined carbohydrates.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can increase blood sugar levels.
- Inactivity: Lack of exercise can contribute to high glucose levels.
Symptoms of high blood sugar
Symptoms of hyperglycemia usually develop slowly over several days or weeks and may include:
- Frequent urination: Kidneys try to flush out excess glucose through the urine.
- Extreme thirst: Loss of fluid due to frequent urination causes thirst.
- Fatigue: Insufficient glucose in the cells leads to fatigue and weakness.
- Blurred vision: High glucose levels can damage the lenses of the eyes, leading to blurred vision.
- Slow-healing wounds: High blood sugar can reduce blood circulation and slow healing.
Lower blood sugar
Healthy eating
- Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates: Avoid foods with added sugars and fast-digesting carbohydrates such as white bread and pastries.
- Choose fiber-rich foods : Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, which help stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Eat regularly: Do not skip meals to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Exercise regularly
- Aerobic exercise: Activities such as walking, cycling, and swimming help improve insulin sensitivity.
- Strength training: Increases muscle mass, which can help better regulate blood sugar levels.
Medication
- Insulin: For people with type 1 diabetes and some with type 2, insulin is essential for regulating blood sugar levels.
- Oral medications: Medications such as metformin can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Hydration
- Drink enough water: Helps remove excess glucose through urine and prevents dehydration.
Stress management
- Techniques such as yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can help reduce stress, which can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.
