Blood sugar tips: the body's sweet "signal light"

Blood sugar refers to the glucose in the blood. It is like the body's energy "currency" that provides power for the normal functioning of cells. Under normal circumstances, the body's blood sugar level remains in a relatively stable range. Generally speaking, the normal value of fasting blood sugar is between 4.4 and 6.1 mmol, and blood sugar should be lower than 7.8 mmol two hours after a meal.

When blood sugar levels deviate from the normal range, it can cause a series of health problems. Hyperglycemia is a relatively well-known condition. Long-term hyperglycemia is like a "gentle knife" that will quietly damage various organs of the body. It will make the blood vessel walls "rough", increase the risk of atherosclerosis, and may cause serious cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease and stroke. Hyperglycemia can also damage the microvessels of the kidneys, affect the filtering function of the kidneys, and in severe cases can lead to renal failure. The retinal blood vessels of the eyes are also extremely vulnerable to high blood sugar, causing diabetic retinopathy and even blindness. Nerves also become diseased under the long-term "immersion" of high blood sugar, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or paresthesia in the hands and feet.

Hypoglycemia should not be underestimated either. When blood sugar is lower than 2.8mmol, the body will quickly sound the "alarm". The patient may suddenly feel extremely hungry, panic, trembling hands, cold sweats, and even confusion and coma in severe cases. This is because the brain is extremely sensitive to hypoglycemia. Once the blood sugar supply is insufficient, brain function will be significantly affected.

So, what factors are behind the rise and fall of blood sugar? Diet is undoubtedly a key factor. Excessive intake of high-sugar, high-fat, and high-carbohydrate foods will cause blood sugar to rise rapidly like a roller coaster. Lack of exercise will reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is like a "key" that cannot open the "door" for cells to absorb glucose, thus causing blood sugar to rise. In addition, mood swings, lack of sleep, certain medications, and diseases can also affect blood sugar.

For people with high blood sugar, dietary control is the basis. The intake of high-sugar foods such as refined grains, candies, and beverages should be reduced, and the proportion of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-quality protein and other foods should be increased. Reasonable exercise is also essential. Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, and swimming can enhance the body's sensitivity to insulin and help lower blood sugar. At the same time, take hypoglycemic drugs or use insulin on time according to the doctor's instructions. People with low blood sugar should always carry some sugary foods, such as candies, biscuits, etc. Once symptoms of hypoglycemia occur, eat them in time to quickly increase blood sugar levels.

Blood sugar is not just a simple medical indicator, it is also a "signal light" that reflects our physical health. Understanding the relevant knowledge of blood sugar, maintaining a good lifestyle, and regularly monitoring blood sugar can keep our bodies running smoothly on a healthy track, avoid the various hazards caused by high and low blood sugar, and enjoy a healthy life.