Blood sugar concept:
Blood sugar or glucose is a vital element in the functions of our bodies. It is the primary source of energy for the body's cells (at appropriate levels). When there is an imbalance in blood sugar levels, this is where the journey of disease begins with blood diabetes.
blood diabetes: It is a metabolic disorder characterized by a continuous increase in blood sugar levels due to insulin deficiency or insulin resistance.
high blood sugar is called hyperglycemia, while low blood sugar is called hypoglycemia. Therefore, maintaining normal blood sugar levels is very important, especially for diabetics who have difficulty regulating blood sugar (glucose).
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Normal blood sugar levels:
* Before eating (fasting): 99-70 mg/dL, 3.9-5.5 mmol/L.
* Two hours after eating: less than 140 mg/dL, 7.8 mmol/L.
It is worth noting that these values may vary slightly based on different medical sources and individual factors such as age, physical activity, and general health status, so individuals should consult their healthcare providers to obtain an accurate and appropriate assessment of their condition.
Biological processes of sugar inside the body:
For healthy (normal) individuals, the body effectively regulates blood sugar levels through the hormone insulin produced by the pancreas. Insulin allows cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy or to store it.
* The biological process of converting glucose into energy inside the cell is known as glycolysis. This process takes place in the cytoplasm and leads to the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) molecules, which is the basic energy process in the cell.
* The biological process of converting glucose into fat inside the cell is known as lipogenesis. In this process, excess glucose is converted into fatty acids, which are later stored in the form of triglycerides inside the adipose tissue. Study link
In the case of diabetes, this process is disrupted:
1- Type 1 diabetes:
The immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production.
2- Type 2 diabetes:
The body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Types of diabetes:
1- Type 1 diabetes:
It is often diagnosed in children and young adults and requires insulin treatment.
2- Type 2 diabetes:
It is common among adults and is often associated with obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle, and is treated with a controlled diet, exercise, and sometimes medications.
3- Gestational diabetes:
It occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after delivery, but it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later.
Symptoms of diabetes:
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Excessive thirst
- Weight loss
- Extreme hunger
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of wounds
Complications of diabetes:
1- Heart and blood vessels: Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
2- Kidneys: Diabetic nephropathy can lead to kidney failure
3- Eyes: Diabetic retinopathy can cause blindness
4- Nerves: Peripheral neuropathy can lead to pain and loss of sensation, especially numbness or tingling in the extremities such as the feet and hands
Insulin resistance:
Insulin resistance, as its name suggests, is a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin and is often an early sign of type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance is widespread worldwide, contributing to the high number of people with type 2 diabetes, with an estimated 15% of the world’s population living with diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
Appropriate diet:
Diet plays a fundamental role in managing diabetes. Here are the dietary guidelines for diabetics or insulin resistance patients: Focus on counting carbohydrates to manage insulin doses and emphasize foods with a low glycemic index. It is best for patients to follow the keto diet with intermittent fasting, as it is the best diet for their condition. They can then move to the low-carb diet with intermittent fasting.
Also, eat balanced foods of proteins, healthy fats, and fiber (most importantly from seeds such as chia seeds, sesame, flax, and pumpkin) and leafy vegetables. Don't forget cinnamon and apple cider vinegar.
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Effective supplements in managing sugar:
1- Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flax seeds, and walnuts or supplements, as they improve heart health.
2- Magnesium found in leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds or supplements, as it helps control glucose.
3- Chromium helps improve insulin sensitivity and is found in whole grains and meats or taken from supplements.
4- Zinc helps regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin secretion and increasing cell sensitivity to it. Zinc deficiency can worsen blood sugar levels, so it is important to get adequate amounts of zinc from food sources such as meat and nuts. It is best to consult a doctor before taking zinc supplements.
5- Berberine is a natural compound extracted from several plants, and has potential benefits in regulating blood sugar levels. Studies suggest that berberine can:
- Improving insulin sensitivity: Helps improve the body's response to insulin.
- Reducing blood sugar levels: May help lower glucose levels after meals.
- Reducing fat: May help lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
In addition, berberine has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Notable Studies on Diabetes:
Several studies provide valuable insights into diabetes management:
1- The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT): Demonstrated the importance of tight blood sugar control in reducing complications in Type 1 diabetes.
2- The United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS): Highlighted the benefits of intensive blood glucose control in reducing complications in Type 2 diabetes.
3- ADVANCE Study: Showed that intensive glucose control reduces the risk of major vascular events in Type 2 diabetes patients.
By understanding blood sugar, the processes involved in diabetes, and effective management strategies, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their health and prevent complications
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