What to do when your blood sugar levels are low or high

Glucose is a type of sugar that provides energy to the body and is required for the body’s metabolic needs. It is sourced from different foods people eat. It is stored in the body. The blood glucose level provides energy to the cells of the body, which reaches all parts of the bloodstream.

If you are still wondering why you need to keep your blood glucose levels in check, scroll down to know the reasons.

Why is it important to regulate blood sugar levels?

Blood glucose, along with fat and protein, is the metabolic supply of energy in the human body. Moreover, it helps in the smooth functioning of the body when it is well maintained, but it shows intense symptoms when it dips too low or rises high.

Low blood sugar levels make the heartbeat fast and cause shaking and sweating in the whole body. They can cause anxiety, dizziness, and irritability. High levels of blood sugar cause tiredness, blurry vision, weight loss, and recurrent infections in the body. The organ responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels is the pancreas.

When the blood sugar levels increase, the pancreas release insulin, which helps absorb glucose from the blood, lowering the blood sugar level to normal. When it dips, the pancreas pumps more glucagon, a hormone that helps stabilise blood sugar levels.

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How to deal with high blood sugar levels?

Some ways to control high blood sugar levels are (above 200 mg/d L):

Eat a low-carb diet

Carbs break down into simple sugar that enters the bloodstream. Avoiding a high-carb diet prevents a further spike in blood sugar levels. Instead, eating more fibre-rich foods such as oatmeal, nuts, vegetables, legumes, and fruits are recommended to control the levels.

Drink more water

When a body is dehydrated, it retains fluid in the kidneys and stops the body from flushing out excess sugar in the urine. Drinking ample amounts of water and drinks is a good way to return blood sugar levels to normal.

Take supplements

Minerals such as chromium and magnesium, taken in the right amounts, help control blood sugar spikes. Supplements should only be taken after a thorough consultation with a doctor.

How to deal with low blood sugar levels?

Some ways to maintain a low blood sugar level (below 70mg/d L):

Have a high-sugar snack

Grabbing a piece of chocolate or a sweet drink can instantly make the person feel better with their low blood sugar symptoms.

Eat a carb-rich diet

A quick sweet snack might not be enough to remedy low blood sugar levels. Eating a high carbohydrate diet in the next consequent days is good for the body.

Take a rest

Strenuous physical activity is sometimes connected to reducing blood sugar levels. Taking a break and resting can improve the symptoms of low blood sugar levels.

These suggestions can help maintain glucose levels in the blood instantly. However, you should not ignore it if the condition is recurrent and the symptoms are very intense. It could be a sign of an underlying disease such as diabetes. Consulting a doctor and proper diagnosis is key to understanding the body and taking steps to maintain good health.