Taking care of your blood sugar is crucial, especially as you get older. Recognizing the signs of high blood sugar levels is key. If left untreated, high blood sugar can harm your health. In this article, we’ll highlight the most common symptoms of high blood sugar and provide you with tips to manage it effectively.
Understanding Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or properly use it. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose from food enter the body cells to provide energy. However, when there is an insulin deficiency, glucose cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream. If left uncontrolled, this can lead to permanent damage to the kidneys, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes.
Symptoms of High Blood Sugar
High blood sugar levels are not always a sign of diabetes, but they can be a symptom of the condition. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Thirst
- Impotence
- Difficulty focusing
- Slow healing cuts and wounds
- Recurring infections
- Digestive problems
- Increased appetite
- Nerve problems
- Dry and itchy skin
- Excess belly fat and weight gain
Managing Blood Sugar Levels
Monitoring your blood sugar levels is key to maintaining good health. Knowing which foods to eat and which to avoid is vital. Foods with a high glycemic index should be avoided, as they can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. The glycemic index is a scale that measures the carb content of food and how it affects blood sugar. Foods with a higher index have a greater impact on blood sugar levels. To manage your blood sugar effectively, focus on consuming low glycemic index foods.
Low Glycemic Index Foods You Can Enjoy in Moderation
Here’s a list of low glycemic index foods that are safe to consume in moderation:
- 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 of 55-69
These foods have a slightly higher glycemic index but can still be consumed in moderation:
- 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
Foods with a High Glycemic Index to Avoid
To maintain stable blood sugar levels, it’s best to avoid foods with a high glycemic index:
- 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
Take Charge of Your Health
Your diet plays a significant role in your overall health. If you experience symptoms of hyperglycemia, it’s essential to make dietary changes before more serious problems arise. By monitoring your blood sugar levels and making informed food choices, you can take control of your health and well-being.
