Why does glucose need to be balanced?
Glucose is the body’s major source of energy.
Our bodies break down the foods we eat into glucose - and other nutrients - to provide energy to all our cells.
The science behind cellular energy is infinitely complex!
To simplify things, first understand that when we eat, glucose is absorbed into the bloodstream from the gut, and becomes known as blood sugar or blood glucose.
The pancreas works to balance blood sugar – it produces insulin, which works to get glucose out of the bloodstream and into body cells where it is used for energy.
In certain health conditions, people have difficulty controlling blood sugar levels because there is not enough insulin, or cells are not absorbing sugar properly.
Having too much sugar in the blood (hyperglycaemia) can cause serious health problems if nothing is done about it.
Hyperglycaemia can damage vessels that supply blood to vital organs
This may increase the risk of:
- heart disease and stroke
- kidney disease
- vision problems
- nerve problems
Hyperglycaemia also increases inflammation and free radical damage in the body
In type 2 diabetes, or insulin-resistant diabetes, people have abnormally high blood sugar levels. It is a serious condition that develops over time.
Diabetes Australia states:
'Type 2 diabetes usually develops in adults over the age of 45 years and is increasingly occurring in younger age groups including children, adolescents and young adults. It represents 85–90 per cent of all cases of diabetes.'
Fortunately, what you consume as food, drinks and supplements can balance blood sugar levels and maintain your energy
Specific nutrients and herbs are very effective at balancing blood sugar levels
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Chromium: aids in the transport of glucose into cells and facilitates its uptake and use by the cell. It stabilises blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels
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Grape Seed Extract: a potent antioxidant which protects the pancreas and blood vessels, also reduces inflammation and swelling caused high blood sugar
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Cinnamon: improves insulin sensitivity. This means the amount of insulin being produced in the pancreas can be used more effectively to get blood sugar into the cells where it can be used for energy
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Fenugreek: is effective at lowering blood sugar levels after a meal and helps insulin response by the cells
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Gymnema: can regulate the amount of sugars absorbed into the bloodstream and increase the amount of insulin made by the pancreas. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Gymnema means "destroyer of sugar” in Hindi
What else can I do?
- Regular exercise is very important. Exercise helps blood sugar management, weight control and stress management
- Learn to handle stress – it affects blood sugar
- Don’t skip meals. Eating regularly helps balance blood sugar levels
- Check food labels for sugar sources eg. sucrose, dextrose, glucose, maltose, lactose
- Don’t smoke – nicotine affects blood sugar
N.B. If you are taking insulin or oral medication for type 2 diabetes, check with your GP about changes to your diet/exercise/supplements as they may enhance the effect of your drugs, and may lead to blood sugar levels dropping too low.
Mr Vitamins recommends
Southernature Glucose Balance Support
Helps maintain normal glucose metabolism. Aids in the transport of glucose, and facilitates the uptake of glucose into the cells.
Find out more and shop online for Southernature Glucose Balance Support here
References:
- Balch, P, A., Balch, J, F. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd ed. Avery Publishing, New York.
- The National Diabetes Services Scheme. 2015. What is Diabetes? Diabetes Australia. Retrieved from: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/what-is-diabetes 24/3/17
