It’s crucial to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and recognize the signs of high blood sugar. Identifying these symptoms early on is key to safeguarding your health. The common indicators of high blood sugar can vary, but being aware of them is essential for timely intervention.
When your body struggles to produce enough insulin or utilize it effectively, hyperglycemia can set in. Insulin plays a crucial role in enabling glucose from food to enter cells for energy. Without sufficient insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, potentially causing lasting damage to organs like the kidneys, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes.
Causes of Elevated Blood Sugar Levels
- Inactivity
- Fatigue
- Dehydration
- Overeating
- Steroid overuse
- Common illnesses like the cold
High blood sugar doesn’t always signal diabetes but could be a symptom of the condition. While diabetes symptoms can vary, here are signs of elevated blood sugar to watch out for:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth and thirst
- Impotence
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slow wound healing
- Recurring infections
- Digestive issues
- Increased appetite
- Nerve problems
- Dry, itchy skin
- Excess weight, particularly in the belly region
Managing Blood Sugar Levels
Knowing which foods to consume is crucial in blood sugar control. Avoid foods with a high glycemic index, as they can spike blood sugar levels. This index measures how carbs in food affect blood sugar—higher numbers signify a higher risk of elevated levels. Opt for low glycemic foods with an index between 0 and 54.
Low GI Foods for Moderation
- Eggs
- Broccoli
- Hummus
- Nuts
- Cherries
- Yogurt
- Onion
- Apple
- Turkey sausage
- Spaghetti
- Grapes
- Peas
- Tomato juice
- Pineapple juice
- Carrot
- Orange
- Grapefruit
- Banana
Moderate GI Foods
- Brown rice
- Mac’n’cheese
- Honey
- Oatmeal
- White rice
High GI Foods to Avoid
- Popcorn
- Rice cakes
- White bread
- Doughnuts
- Baked potatoes
- Cornflakes
- Glucose supplements
Your dietary choices impact your overall health. If you notice symptoms of hyperglycemia, consider adjusting your eating habits to prevent major health complications.
