Blood sugar is the common term for blood glucose levels and refers to the amount of glucose normally present in the blood. Glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day, rising for a few hours after meals and declining between them, reaching the lowest point before the first meal of the day. Blood glucose is transported from the liver or intestines via the blood stream and is the human body's main source of energy. When the body cannot keep blood glucose at normal levels, a person is said to have either hyperglycemia (continuously high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (continuously low blood sugar). The development of either of these conditions will lead to a strict monitoring of food intake to control blood glucose levels, but many people overlook the nutritional supplements they take that raise their blood glucose levels.
Instructions
1. If you are looking to raise your blood glucose level, try taking a vitamin that contains a B-complex. B vitamins may not taste the greatest, but they allow the body to tolerate foods that produce low blood sugar reactions, such as sugary foods and refined carbohydrates. These foods can overwhelm the pancreas, liver and adrenal glands. B-vitamins, particularly B6, can help build up these glands and keep them from being exhausted through dietary choices. Many B vitamins are found in protein rich foods such as meat, eggs and fish.
2. Studies from Columbia University have shown that chromium helps the body to use insulin. By stabilizing the blood glucose levels and increasing energy, chromium can be a useful dietary tool for those with hypoglycemia, insulin resistance or glucose intolerance and can help prevent the onset of diabetes. The daily recommended allowance is 50 to 100 micrograms. Chromium can be found in broccoli, soy beans, nuts, mushrooms, pineapple, kidney beans and pomegranates.
3. Cells which become resistant to insulin cannot store magnesium. Magnesium decreases the amount of xanthurenic acid in the body and stabilizes blood glucose levels. The recommended amount of magnesium is 500 milligrams a day, and it is most effective when combined with 10 milligrams of Vitamin B6. Magnesium can be found in apples, lemons, peaches, almonds, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.
4. Niacinamide, or Niacin, is a water soluble vitamin that raises blood glucose levels. Additionally, it enhances insulin sensitivity and has been useful in halting the progression of Type I diabetes. Found in peanuts, pork, salmon, tuna and turkey, it is recommended that adults get 50 milligrams each day.
5. Glucomannan is a dietary fiber that is derived from konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). It is used primarily as an emulsifier and a thickener. Though not approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration, there is some clinical evidence to support the claims that glucomannan alleviates low blood glucose levels in Type 2 diabetics.
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