Carbohydrates, fats and proteins provide the body with energy for growth and basic bodily functions. From carbohydrates, the body takes glucose as a source of energy. The right level of blood glucose is essential for good health. Although a healthy person's body can regulate blood glucose levels, in some situations the glucose levels may become too high or low.
Glucose Basics
Glucose, also known as sugar or grape sugar, is a primary source of energy for many of the body's cells and organs. Glucose comes from two types of carbohydrates: starch in foods like grains and vegetables, and sugar in foods like fruit, milk and candy, note University of Michigan medical experts. The hormones insulin and glucagon, among others, keep blood glucose levels, or blood sugar levels, within a healthy range.
Significance
Abnormal blood glucose levels may indicate health problems. Diabetes occurs when the body makes too little insulin or can't use insulin properly and glucose levels are consistently too high, University of Maryland experts warn. Hypoglycemia occurs when glucose levels are too low. This condition may occur along with diabetes, when medications increase insulin levels too much, leaving too little glucose available in the bloodstream. Other causes of hypoglycemia include a poor diet, certain medications, hormone imbalances and liver or kidney disease.
Monitoring Glucose Levels
A blood tests allows you to measure your blood glucose level. This test is useful for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and hypoglycemia. You can check your blood sugar levels at home with specialized blood glucose meter, paper test strips and lancets. Insert a test strip into the meter. Prick your finger with a lancet and apply the resulting drop of blood to the test strip. The meter will then display your blood glucose level. To obtain meaningful information, you'll need to keep a record of the results over several days.
Preventing Problems
Lower your risk of type 2 diabetes by eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and non-starchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli and spinach, advise experts from the American Diabetes Association. Get more whole grains, beans and legumes and cut back on sugary foods and drinks. Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight also helps. Reduce your chances of hypoglycemic episodes by eating six small meals a day instead of three large ones, getting more fiber and protein at each meal, and cutting back on simple sugars like candy.
Signs of Danger
Without management, chronically high or low blood sugar levels can cause serious health problems. Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, unusual thirst or hunger, tiredness and vision changes, according to University of Maryland experts. Among the symptoms of hypoglycemia are sweating, trembling, heart palpitations and confusion. If you experience these symptoms, consult your health care provider.
