Sugar, Sugar ... Keep it Down

Glucose is a simple sugar with a complex job. It provides our cells, especially brain and muscles cells, with fuel that they can convert into energy. Glucose can be used immediately or stored as glycogen to be used later. If glucose remains too high in the blood it can become damaging and alter proteins, cells, tissues, and blood vessels, leading to chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and kidney failure.

It is very important to address high blood glucose early on with lifestyle and nutrition changes.

These optimal guidelines include:

• A balanced diet with healthy sources of complex carbohydrates, protein, fat, and water
• An abundance of micronutrients including vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients
• Avoid concentrated sweets including soda, most candy, and many baked goods made from refined flour, sugar, and not much else!
• Avoid highly processed foods and focus on whole foods in their most natural state
• Engage in regular physical activity, aerobic exercise, and muscle-building activities 
• Walk after meals
• Develop a good stress management plan

Be sure to know your numbers... know your fasting blood glucose and work with a healthcare professional to keep your sugar down!

Want to learn more about Fasting Glucose? CLICK HERE to dive into the Biomarkers of Blood Sugar Regulation - Fasting Glucose