When you eat food, your digestive system breaks down proteins, fats and carbohydrates for use throughout the body. Complex carbohydrates convert into glucose, a simple sugar, which passes into the bloodstream to fuel cells, muscles and major organs. In most cases, the body is able to store excess glucose quickly, maintaining normal blood levels and preventing problems. Elevated glucose levels in the blood can be a sign of a medical condition or a problem with the diet.
Insulin
When glucose enters the bloodstream, the pancreas secrets a hormone called insulin to process it. Insulin encourages cells and tissues throughout the body to take up glucose from the blood, storing it for use as energy. Under normal circumstances, insulin keeps the blood glucose level between 70 and 130 mg of sugar per deciliter of blood, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Excess Carbohydrates
Eating a diet high in simple carbohydrates can cause short-term spikes in blood glucose levels. This forces the body to manufacture excess insulin to compensate and avoid hyperglycemia or high blood sugar. If the pancreas releases too much insulin, this can bring the glucose levels below the normal range, causing dizziness, headache and extreme hunger.
Insulin Resistance
Over time, a diet high in carbohydrates and the associated high levels of insulin in the blood can cause cells and tissues to develop a resistance to the hormone's effects. This can cause glucose levels to remain high, even in the presence of insulin. Over time, this can lead to uncontrolled hyperglycemia and the body's inability to use sugar for fuel will cause it to break down fats instead. If not treated, this can be life-threatening. Insulin resistance can be a precursor to type 2 diabetes.
Glycemic Index
The glycemic index of foods is a measurement of their effect on blood glucose over time. Each food has a numeric rating, with 100 representing white bread or pure glucose. Lower numbers indicate a slower rise in glucose levels, while higher numbers represent food that tends to cause sugar spikes. Eating lower glycemic index carbohydrates, like whole grains, beans and vegetables, can help maintain healthier glucose levels.
A Healthy Diet
The best way to prevent diabetes and other complications from excessive glucose levels is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Lean meats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables are good sources of nutrients, while white flour, sugar and starches should be a small percentage of the overall diet. Choosing low glycemic index carbohydrates can help maintain healthy blood sugar and avoid massive swings in glucose levels.
