As we age, it becomes increasingly important to monitor our blood sugar levels. Recognizing the symptoms of high blood sugar is crucial for maintaining our health. If left untreated, high blood sugar levels can have detrimental effects on our well-being. In this article, we will discuss the common symptoms of high blood sugar and how to manage them effectively.
Understanding Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or is unable to use it properly. Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose from food to enter our body cells, where it is used as energy. When there is a deficiency of insulin, glucose cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to permanent damage to organs such as the kidneys, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes.
Identifying the Causes
There are various causes of increased blood sugar levels, including physical inactivity, fatigue, the common cold, dehydration, excessive eating, and excessive use of steroids. It is important to be aware that increased blood sugar levels do not necessarily mean diabetes. However, they can be a symptom of the disease.
Recognizing the Symptoms
If you are experiencing high blood sugar levels, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination, especially overnight
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Thirst
- Impotence
- Difficulty focusing
- Slow healing of cuts and wounds
- Recurring infections
- Digestive problems
- Increased appetite
- Nerve problems
- Dry and itchy skin
- Excess belly fat and weight gain
Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels
To control your blood sugar levels, it is crucial to pay attention to your diet. Foods with a high glycemic index should be avoided as they can increase blood sugar levels. The glycemic index is a scale that indicates the number of carbohydrates in food that may affect blood sugar levels. The higher the number, the greater the risk of high blood sugar levels. Foods with a glycemic index between 0 and 54 are considered low glycemic foods and are safe to consume moderately.
Here is a list of low glycemic foods you can include in your diet:
- 1 egg: 6
- A cup of broccoli: 10
- A cup of hummus: 6
- A cup of nuts: 15
- A cup of cashew nuts: 22
- A cup of cherries: 22
- A cup of yogurt: 23
- Medium-sized onion: 10
- Medium-sized apple: 38
- 1 Turkey sausage: 28
- A cup of spaghetti: 42
- A cup of green grapes: 46
- A cup of peas: 54
- 220 gr. of tomato juice: 38
- 220 gr. of pineapple juice: 46
- 1 carrot: 47
- 1 orange: 48
- 1 grapefruit: 50
- 1 banana: 52
Foods with a glycemic index between 55-69 should be consumed in moderation. These include:
- A cup of brown rice: 55
- 1 serving of mac’n’cheese: 64
- A tablespoon of honey: 55
- A cup of oatmeal: 55
- A cup of white rice: 64
It is important to avoid foods with a high glycemic index, as they can significantly raise blood sugar levels. Here are some examples:
- 2 cups of popcorn: 70
- Rice cake: 76
- A slice of white bread: 70
- 1 doughnut: 76
- Medium-sized baked potato: 85
- 1 portion of corn flakes: 92
- 50 gr. of glucose: 100
Taking care of your diet is crucial for managing high blood sugar levels and preventing further complications. Don’t hesitate to make changes in your eating habits if you experience any symptoms of hyperglycemia. Your health is worth it!
