Blood glucose is another name for blood sugar. When carbohydrates and sweets are eaten, they are turned into glucose in the body. At this point, they are either used for energy immediately or stored away for energy later. When blood glucose levels elevate, it is usually the result of insulin not being released sufficiently from the pancreas, as is the case with diabetes. A high level of glucose is also commonly called hyperglycemia, and symptoms that can be seen with it include blurry vision, extreme thirst and having to take many trips to the bathroom. When blood glucose levels are high, there are various ways to cure the problem.
Exercise
The body uses the stored form of of glucose, called glycogen, for energy when it is exercising. Doing weight training, running, cycling, swimming or any form of cardiovascular exercise can help lower glucose levels. Even 30 minutes of walking a day can be beneficial.
Reduction
Foods that are both high in saturated fat and sugar can have a negative effect on blood sugar levels, and should be avoided. Some examples of these are fast foods, processed baked goods, doughnuts, cookies, cakes and candy.
Fiber
The glycemic index is a table that shows how fast a carbohydrate is absorbed into the blood stream. Foods that are high on this index are called simple carbs and foods that are low are called complex carbs. Complex carbs are low because they have a high amount of fiber in them, which can keep blood glucose levels stabilized. This is the type of carbohydrate that should be consumed. Some examples are oranges, apples, cherries, oat bran, oatmeal and prunes.
Water
Beverages can also cause blood glucose levels to be high. Some examples of these are soda, sweetened teas, fruit drinks and sweetened coffee drinks such as vanilla frappuccinos. In place of these beverages, water should be consumed. It has no calories or sugar, and it helps to flush impurities from the body. According to the Institute of Medicine, women should consume 2.7 liters a day and men should consume 3.7 liters a day.
Supplements
Other than adjustments in food, there are also various supplements that can be taken to control high blood glucose. They help with the breakdown of carbs in the body, and they also help with insulin release and storage. Some of these include chromium, cinnamon, zinc and ginseng.
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