Prevalence of Blood Sugar Problems
Imbalance in blood sugar levels is often related to genetic issues or unhealthy lifestyle; unhealthy dietary habits and inactivity. All these issues can disturb the insulin sensitivity in the body. Frequently rising blood sugar levels may lead to diabetes.
Symptoms:
Symptoms that may suggest of blood sugar imbalance are:
• Fatigue
• Cravings for sweet foods or carbohydrates (e.g., chocolate, candies, bread, pasta)
• Headaches
• Concentration problems
• Mood swings, irritability and depression
Many people with diabetes are asymptomatic and consequently remain undiagnosed unless blood sugar testing is performed or unless the blood vessels, eyes, nerves and kidneys are damaged. So, the symptoms that may indicate diabetes and require urgent care include:
• Excessive thirst
• Increased urination
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Insatiable hunger
• Poor healing of cuts and wounds
• Itchy skin
• Dizziness, headaches, blurred vision
• Muscle cramps; especially in the legs
Causes:
Risk factors to blood sugar problems include;
• Family history of diabetes
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• History of gestational diabetes or PCOS (in females)
• Age
• Skipping meals
In addition to these, excessive consumption of high glycemic foods; sugary foods, alcohol, and simple carbohydrates (pasta, white flour, etc.), can also lead to rise in blood sugar levels.
Deficiencies of nutrients involved in the metabolism of glucose and insulin; chromium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and some B vitamins, may also contribute to the problem.
Nutritional Solutions:
Below mentioned dietary modifications can help in regulating blood sugar levels:
• Consume low glycemic diet which includes slow-burning carbohydrates; whole grains and legumes, to balance sugar levels.
• Avoid high glycemic foods; sugars, white flour, pasta, white rice and other processed carbohydrates.
• Chromium is also helpful in balancing glucose levels by improving carbohydrate metabolism. It helps in reducing sugar cravings, and may also help in managing weight problems.
• Consumption of small but frequent meals, throughout the day, is recommended to manage blood sugar levels.
• Add small servings of protein and unsaturated fats (fish meat & oil, nuts and seeds), and limit the use of saturated and trans fats in the diet.
• Eat fresh fruits in place of soft and sugary drinks to avoid spikes in blood sugar.
• Exercise is also beneficial in maintaining blood sugar balance and managing weight problems.
• Nutrients like; zinc, magnesium, manganese and nicotinamide (vitamin B3) are also involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Supplemental Aid:
Multiple dietary supplements can help in balancing sugar levels.
1. Glucofactor:
This dietary supplement contains 11 essential nutrients including Chromium Picolinate, Magnesium, and Garlic Extract to manage sugar and energy levels along with other micronutrients to support the immune system and to help lower cholesterol levels. Pre-diabetic and diabetic men and women can use this dietary supplement.
2. Glyzon Plus:
Glyzon Plus is a dietary supplement that contains vital nutrients; Chromium Picolinate, Vitamin D3, Bitter Melon Extract, Folic Acid, ALA and a couple of more nutrients, which are helpful in balancing sugar levels, strengthening bones and boosting energy levels. Pre-diabetic and diabetic men and women can use it.
3. Magnesium:
Magnesium is another dietary supplement which helps in the regulation of sugar levels and improved muscle contractions. Adult men and women can use this dietary supplement.
Although dietary supplements may help in managing sugar levels, but these can only work effectively with a healthy lifestyle.