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High (Hyper) and Low (Hypo) Blood Sugar Levels
What is the difference between hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia? Hyper means high and hypo means low. So hyperglycemia is high blood sugar levels and hypoglycemia is low blood sugar levels. Our blood sugar levels fluctuate depending on our actions, thoughts or even our environment.
A healthy body releases hormones in response to changing blood sugar levels to most effectively utilize the sugar and to maintain a healthy blood sugar balance.
For various reasons some individuals’ systems lack the ability to release the correct hormones or to respond effectively to them. These inabilities result in either hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
Hyperglycemia
Having high levels of blood glucose is an indication that your body is not producing enough insulin or is insulin-resistant. There can be different causes of hyperglycemia including stress and lack of exercise. Hyperglycemia can also occur if you have type 1 diabetes and miss taking your diabetes medications.
However the most common cause is eating too many carbohydrate rich foods than the body can handle. There are also cases when a person experiences hyperglycemia as one of the side effects to medications. This is why it is very important for your doctor to monitor you if you are taking medications.
If you notice yourself feeling more tired than usual, thirsty, feeling sick to your stomach, urinating more often and/or having blurred vision then it is possible that your blood glucose has exceeded safe levels. You must consult your health care provider and describe the symptoms.
Simple tests can be done and necessary changes to your meal plans can be made. Hopefully natural blood sugar supplements would be recommended instead of medications!
Hypoglycemia
If your blood glucose falls below 70 mg/dl, you are considered hypoglycemic and your blood glucose levels are too low. In some cases hypoglycemia may pose serious health consequences, immediately and in the long term. If your blood sugar levels drop too quickly immediate medical attention may be required as it can lead to convulsions and unconsciousness.
Some causes of hypoglycemia can include skipping or delaying meals, not eating enough carbohydrate-rich foods, prolonged physical exertion and excessive alcohol drinking. Medications for other health problems may also provide side effects that lead to lowered levels of blood glucose.
Symptoms of low blood glucose levels are feelings of anxiousness, irritability, tiredness, numbness around the mouth, slurred speech, feeling shaky, weak and hungry. You may also experience profuse sweating and headaches. If you experience any, or especially a combination of these symptoms it would be wise to have your health care professional do an assessment.
Keeping Balanced Blood Glucose Levels
If you have reason for concern, regular monitoring of your blood glucose levels can assist a pattern of healthy lifestyle choices.
- Inexpensive testers are available at pharmacies or online.
- Exercising on a regular basis can help improve your body’s ability to respond to insulin.
- Eating healthy meals at appropriate times will greatly assist in maintaining a correct blood sugar balance.
- If any medications you are taking effects your levels bring it to your doctor’s attention.
Your body is designed to regulate your blood sugar levels. Actions you take will either assist or impede your body in achieving this. Although medication can assist, the major factor is your actions regarding diet and lifestyle. If you are pro-active in your pursuit of maintaining healthy blood sugar levels you have a good chance at managing your hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia without the need of medications.
It is also wise to not eat too many high carb foods. Instead try following a low carb diet. They not only help you lose weight but they help balance your blood sugar levels.
Mireya DeCordova says
February 26, 2017 at 11:22 amCan I take Lean Optimizer with a meal. Cannot tolerate pills on an empty stomach.
Jennifer Johnson says
February 26, 2017 at 11:55 amHi Mireya,
On the directions label, it says to take before breakfast on an empty stomach. Would you like me to ask Dr Sam what he recommends for you, if you can’t tolerate taking pills on an empty stomach?