Post Time: 2025-07-18
High blood sugar can have severe consequences on our health if left unmanaged. When we consume carbohydrates or sugary foods, our body breaks them down into glucose, which is then absorbed by the bloodstream. Ideally, the pancreas releases insulin to regulate blood sugar levels within a normal range of 70-140 mg/dL.
Consequences of High Blood Sugar: Fluctuations and Health Risks
Blood sugar fluctuations can occur due to various factors such as stress, exercise, or dietary choices. When our blood sugar ranges are consistently too high, it puts excessive strain on the pancreas leading to insulin resistance. This condition increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and contributes to a range of health issues including heart disease and stroke.
Understanding Insulin Sensitivity: The Key to Regulating Blood Sugar
Insulin sensitivity is crucial in regulating blood sugar levels. When our body becomes resistant to insulin, it cannot regulate glucose effectively leading to consistently high or low blood sugar ranges. This condition can be managed by incorporating foods that improve insulin sensitivity into our diet such as fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
Role of Fiber: Regulating Blood Sugar with the Help of Gut Bacteria
Fiber is a vital nutrient in regulating blood sugar levels, particularly through its beneficial effects on gut bacteria. Research has shown that an imbalance in gut microbiota can disrupt glucose regulation leading to insulin resistance. By incorporating high-fiber foods into our diet we not only improve digestion but also support healthy blood sugar levels.
The Importance of Sleep: How Poor Rest Affects Blood Sugar Regulation
Sleep is a critical aspect of maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges as poor sleep quality has been linked to higher risk factors for chronic diseases including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. When our body does not get sufficient rest, it affects the regulation of glucose by disrupting insulin sensitivity.
Managing Stress: How Chronic Tension Affects Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Chronic stress can have severe effects on blood sugar fluctuations as tension stimulates the release of stress hormones such as cortisol which in turn disrupts normal metabolic processes including glucose regulation. Regular exercise and relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation are effective ways to manage stress levels thereby maintaining healthy blood sugar ranges.
In this video Doctor O'Donovan explains key facts you need to know about a medication called METFORMIN used to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as Glucophage, Fortamet, Axpinet, Diagemet, Glucient, Metabet). In the video we cover: What is metformin? (0.36) Who can and can't take it? (1.34) How to take it (2.36) Side effects (4.49) Use in pregnancy (7.40) Interactions do steroids increase blood sugar levels (8.15) Key facts - Not everyone gets diabetes symptoms, so taking metformin may not make you feel any different. That does not mean it is not working, so keep on taking it. - It's best to take metformin with a meal to reduce the side effects. The most common side effects are feeling and being sick, diarrhoea, stomach ache and loss of appetite. Vitamin B12 deficiency is also a common side effect of taking metformin in higher doses or what can you do to lower blood sugar for long periods. - Metformin does not cause weight gain, unlike some other diabetes medicines. - If you have diabetes, you can get free prescriptions for all of your medicines, not just your diabetes ones. You'll need to have a medical exemption certificate. Further information via NHS website: Patient information leaflet: #doctor #diabetes #medication #pharmacy ************************************************************************ Connect through: YouTube: www.youtube.com/doctorodonovan TikTok: @doctorodonovan ************************************************************************** Disclaimer: The video is intended as an educational resource only. The information within this video or on this channel isn't designed to replace professional input, so if you have any medical issues please consult a medical provider. No professional relationship is being created by watching this video. Dr. O’Donovan cannot give any individual medical advice. All information should are blood sugar monitors accurate be verified for accuracy by the individual user. Dr O’Donovan accepts no responsibility for individual interpretation of data, although it is always accurate to the best of his knowledge at the time of the video being published. This is an EDUCATIONAL video. Images are used in accordance with fair use guidelines. Legal information: Content provided via YouTube is for general information purposes ONLY. Information videos are not produced to provide individualised medical advice. Medical education videos on Doctor O'Donovan are not a substitute for professional professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. NEVER ignore professional medical advice because of something you have heard here. ALWAYS consult your doctor regarding any concerns about your condition or treatment.