Hyperglycemia is a condition in which your blood sugar level -- the amount of glucose in your bloodstream -- gets too high. According to the Nemours Foundation's Kids Health website, hyperglycemia is a relatively common occurrence among people with uncontrolled diabetes. Increased urination, severe thirst and unexpected weight loss are some of the most common signs of this problem. Certain nutrients may be helpful in treating your hyperglycemia, although you should avoid ingesting nutrients for this health purpose until you consult your doctor.
Hyperglycemia Information
Hyperglycemia, according to the University of Iowa, may be caused by numerous factors, including eating excessive amounts of food that is not part of your diet plan, using less insulin than you require to balance your blood sugar levels, certain infections or illnesses, injuries, surgeries and emotional stress. Some of the most commonly experienced symptoms associated with hyperglycemia include frequent urination, increased nighttime urination, dry mouth, blurry vision, fatigue, drowsiness and unexpected weight loss.
Important Nutrients
One of the most important nutrients in treating hyperglycemia, says Dr. Russell B. Marz, a naturopathic physician and author of "Medical Nutrition From Marz," is chromium. Other beneficial nutrients in treating this health problem include coenzyme Q10, maitake extract and various active ingredients in the following herbs: ginseng, fenugreek, bitter melon, juniper and jambul. Not all of these nutrients have been extensively studied using rigorous scientific testing methods and may require more research to support their use for this health purpose.
A Helpful Nutrient
Chromium may be one of the most helpful nutrients in treating your hyperglycemia. Chromium, according to the Chiropractic Resource Organization, may play a significant role in glucose metabolism, helping to regulate and normalize your blood glucose levels. This nutrient may be particularly helpful for people with diabetes. Chromium is also important for the production of proteins, fats and cholesterol in your body, and additional chromium may be required during pregnancy due to your developing fetus' increased demand for this nutrient.
Warning
Hyperglycemia is a serious condition that should be managed by a qualified health-care professional. If you suffer from hyperglycemia, review your treatment options with your doctor. In most cases, nutritional therapy is a safe and effective method to help control your condition, although you should consult your doctor about risks, benefits, side effects, dosage and alternative therapies before using specific nutrients medicinally. A health-care provider specializing in clinical nutrition can assess your condition and make helpful therapeutic recommendations.
References
- Kids Health: Hyperglycemia
- University of Iowa: Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)
- "Medical Nutrition From Marz"; Russell B. Marz; 1999
- Chiropractic Resource Organization: Chromium: An Element Essential to Health
