Table of Contents
- 1 What is blood sugar and how does it affect our health?
- 2 Prediabetes: A silent warning
- 3
- 4 Risk factors: Who should worry?
- 5 Regular monitoring: When and how to have glucose tests?
- 6 Myths and realities about products and technology for sugar control
- 7 Conclusion: The importance of prevention
- 8 **Given the potential for both benefit and over-reliance, what ethical considerations should guide the development and implementation of future diabetes management technologies?**
blood sugar It is a critical issue for our health, and often does not receive adequate attention until it is too late. According to Dr. Archana Sadhu, an endocrinologist at Houston Methodist Hospital, 1 in 3 adults has prediabetes, a condition that precedes type 2 diabetes. The alarming thing is that about 80% of these people are not aware of their condition, which that delays the prevention and treatment of a disease that affects millions of people around the world.
Within the framework of World Diabetes Day, this article addresses the most important aspects of blood sugar control, risk factors, how to maintain healthy levels and what strategies are effective in preventing progression to type 2 diabetes, based on recommendations from specialists at Houston Methodist Hospital, such as Dr. Sadhu.
What is blood sugar and how does it affect our health?
Glucose, or blood sugar, is essential for our body’s functions. It is obtained mainly from the carbohydrates we eat and is the main source of energy for cells. “We need glucose for cells to function properly, but keeping levels within a healthy range is critical to preventing long-term tissue damage.“explains Dr. Archana Sadhu, specialist in endocrinology.
When blood sugar levels remain high for a long period of time, they can cause a number of complications, including the development of type 2 diabetes. This disease is characterized by the body’s inability to properly use insulin, causing low blood sugar levels. chronically high blood sugar.
Prediabetes: A silent warning
Prediabetes is a phase prior to type 2 diabetes, in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. “The real problem at this stage is not so much the sugar itself, but the insulin resistance that is developing”says Dr. Sadhu. This process occurs when the body needs more insulin than usual to keep glucose levels controlled, which overloads the pancreas and eventually leads to the development of diabetes.
According to the expert, prediabetes is a warning sign that should not be ignored. “Prediabetes often has no visible symptoms, which makes regular screening crucial, especially if you have risk factors.”
More than 800 million adults in the world live with diabetes expand
Risk factors: Who should worry?
The risk of developing prediabetes increases with age, but it is not exclusive to older people. “One in three adults over the age of 20 has prediabetes, and most don’t know it,” warns Dr. Sadhu. Other risk factors include:
- Obesity or overweight: Having a high body mass index (BMI) is one of the main risk indicators.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to insulin resistance.
- Genetics: Having close family members with diabetes considerably increases the risk.
- Hypertension and high cholesterol: These conditions, which often coexist with prediabetes, also indicate elevated risk.
Dr. Sadhu adds, “It is essential that people who have one or more of these factors have their blood glucose tested regularly.”
Three fundamental keys to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels
One of the most important aspects of preventing type 2 diabetes is controlling glucose levels before they become a problem. To achieve this, Dr. Sadhu highlights three essential elements:
1. Natural and balanced diet
“Avoiding processed foods is key,” Dr. Sadhu emphasizes. “Foods that come directly from the earth, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, are the most recommended for maintaining healthy glucose levels.” Simple carbohydrates, such as sugary drinks or fruit juices, should be limited, as they are absorbed quickly, causing glucose spikes that overload the body.
An important recommendation is to prefer to eat the whole fruit instead of drinking it in juice. The endocrinologist explains that, “fruit juice lacks the fiber that helps regulate glucose absorption, resulting in a rapid increase in blood sugar. Instead, eating the whole fruit offers fiber and a faster digestion process. slow”.
Another key aspect is the balance between simple and complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates, like those found in whole grains, break down more slowly, providing sustained energy and preventing sudden glucose spikes. “It is important not to completely eliminate carbohydrates, but to choose the right ones,” advises the doctor.
The ‘Block Diabetes’ campaign seeks to promote timely detection expand
2. Daily physical activity
“Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to control blood sugar,” says Dr. Sadhu. Physical activity improves the body’s ability to use glucose efficiently and also helps reduce insulin resistance. “Even a 30-minute daily walk can make a big difference,” she explains.
Exercise not only improves insulin sensitivity, but also offers additional benefits for cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health. It is a habit that should be part of the daily routine of anyone who wants to prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes.
3. Get enough sleep
Sleep is another key factor that is often overlooked. “Lack of sleep negatively affects insulin regulation and can cause an increase in blood sugar levels,” says Dr. Sadhu. Studies show that chronic lack of sleep can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, as the body becomes less sensitive to insulin.
“A good rest is crucial for metabolic health,” emphasizes the doctor. It is recommended to sleep between 7 and 9 hours per night to maintain hormonal balance and reduce the risk of insulin resistance.
Regular monitoring: When and how to have glucose tests?
It is essential to carry out regular checks of blood glucose levels to detect any abnormalities. According to Dr. Sadhu, the frequency of testing depends on each individual’s risk factors. “If you have a family history of diabetes, overweight or any condition such as hypertension, “You should start checking your sugar levels from the age of 20,” he suggests.
One of the most common tests to measure blood sugar is the A1C (glycated hemoglobin) test, which provides an overview of average glucose levels over the past three months. “It’s one of the most effective ways to identify prediabetes and diabetes,” emphasizes Dr. Sadhu of Houston Methodist Hospital. For most people, this test is recommended once a year or more frequently if you are already at risk.
Myths and realities about products and technology for sugar control
In the digital age, many products and technologies have emerged designed to help control glucose levels. However, some of these products are not intended for healthy people. One of the most popular in recent years is continuous glucose monitors, promoted by celebrities and social networks.
Dr. Sadhu clarifies that these devices are designed for people with diabetes and offer no real benefits for healthy people. “A continuous glucose monitor is intended to alert diabetics about dangerously low or high blood sugar levels. However, in people without glucose problems, these readings can generate unnecessary anxiety,” says the specialist.
Instead of relying on advanced technology to constantly monitor sugar levels, Dr. Sadhu recommends focusing on a healthy lifestyle. “The most important thing is to eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. Most people don’t need monitors or supplements to keep control of their glucose levels,” he says.
Conclusion: The importance of prevention
Controlling blood sugar levels is critical to preventing the progression of prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. As Dr. Archana Sadhu, an endocrinologist at Houston Methodist Hospital, explains, “education, early detection, and lifestyle changes life are essential to prevent prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes.
Adopting a balanced diet, staying physically active and carrying out regular check-ups are the cornerstones of keeping your glucose levels under control. It is essential that all people, especially those with risk factors, take preventive measures to protect their long-term health. As the doctor says, “the power is in your hands to prevent major complications, but the first step is to be informed and act in time,” concludes the endocrinologist at Houston Methodist Hospital.
This article is based on an interview conducted with Dr. Archana Sadhu, an endocrinologist at Houston Methodist Hospital, during an episode of the On Health with Houston Methodist podcast.
More information for patients:
Houston Methodist Global Healthcare Services | Houston Methodist
DAY
**Given the potential for both benefit and over-reliance, what ethical considerations should guide the development and implementation of future diabetes management technologies?**
Here are some open-ended questions focusing on key topics from the article, designed to encourage discussion and diverse viewpoints:
**Prediabetes and Risk Factors**
* The article mentions that one in three adults over 20 has prediabetes. What are your thoughts on the prevalence of this condition and the lack of awareness surrounding it?
* Many risk factors for prediabetes are lifestyle-related. What systemic changes, beyond individual responsibility, could help address these risk factors on a broader scale?
* The article focuses on individual responsibility for preventing type 2 diabetes. How can healthcare systems and communities better support individuals in making these lifestyle changes?
**Diet and Exercise**
* The article advocates for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. In a world of busy schedules and readily available processed foods, how can individuals realistically make these dietary changes sustainable?
* The article highlights the importance of physical activity. What strategies can be implemented to encourage physical activity among those who find it challenging to incorporate into their daily routine?
**Technology and Blood Sugar Management**
* The article cautions against relying too heavily on technology for glucose control. What are your thoughts on the role of technology in diabetes management? Where do you see the line between helpful tools and potentially harmful reliance?
* In the future, what technological advancements do you think could be truly beneficial for preventing and managing diabetes?
**Overall Impact and Prevention:**
* The article emphasizes the importance of early detection and prevention. What are the biggest barriers to accessing preventative care for individuals at risk of prediabetes?
* What are your thoughts on the long-term consequences of rising rates of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, both for individuals and society as a whole?
* Doubling down on prevention sounds great, but what are some real-world strategies to motivate individuals to prioritize their long-term health?
These questions are designed to spark thoughtful discussion and encourage participants to share their own experiences, opinions, and potential solutions.
