Maintaining a healthy blood sugar range is crucial for optimal health, but it can be challenging due to various factors such as diet, exercise, stress levels, and genetics. As we age, our bodies undergo changes that affect how they regulate glucose in the bloodstream.
The Impact of Aging on Blood Sugar Range
Studies have shown that aging affects insulin sensitivity, making older adults more susceptible to blood sugar fluctuations (1). This is because muscle mass decreases with age, leading to reduced glucose uptake by muscles. Additionally, pancreatic beta-cell function declines, resulting in decreased insulin secretion. As a result, it becomes increasingly difficult for the body to maintain optimal blood sugar levels.
Exercise and Blood Sugar: A Symbiotic Relationship
Regular physical activity has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both of which contribute to better blood sugar regulation (2). Exercise also enhances glucose uptake in muscles by increasing the expression of GLUT4 receptors. However, it's essential to note that exercise should be done consistently as a one-time workout may not have long-term effects on blood sugar levels.
The Role of Diet in Maintaining Blood Sugar Range
A balanced diet plays a significant role in regulating blood sugar levels (3). Consuming foods rich in fiber such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help slow down glucose absorption. On the other hand, sugary drinks and refined carbohydrates should be avoided due to their rapid impact on blood sugar spikes.
The Link Between Stress and Blood Sugar Range Fluctuations
Stress affects our bodies' ability to regulate blood sugar by increasing cortisol levels (4). This hormone interferes with insulin signaling pathways, making it harder for glucose to enter cells. Moreover, stress also causes the release of stored glucose into the bloodstream, further exacerbating high blood sugar levels.
Blood Sugar Range and Diabetes: The Connection
Maintaining a healthy blood sugar range is crucial in preventing or managing diabetes (5). High blood sugar levels over time damage organs such as kidneys, nerves, and eyes. By keeping track of our blood sugar ranges regularly and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing complications.
The Importance of Tracking Your Blood Sugar Range
Monitoring your blood sugar range is essential for identifying patterns and adjusting strategies to maintain optimal levels (6). This data can also be used in conjunction with medication or other treatments if required. Regular tracking encourages awareness, which helps prevent potential health issues caused by uncontrolled blood sugar fluctuations.
References:
"Aging and Insulin Sensitivity" Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences
American Diabetes Association, Exercise as Medicine for Type 2 Diabetes (2020)
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, EatRight.org on carbohydrates
Cortisol effects in the body by Dr.Jay Wortman
American Heart Association - Managing blood sugar levels with physical activity
▸▸▸ Enroll in our New Courses for Diabetes: - Get Our Special 50% Discount Using Coupon Code “DIABETES2022” - Start Your Healing Transformation bad blood sugar TODAY! ▸▸▸ Enroll in our Detox Course for Diabetes: Enroll in our new Detox Course and learn How to Heal using a Holistic Approach plus more. Download Diabetes Management Book:
Hello, I'm Ty Mason from TheDiabetesCouncil.com, researcher, writer and I have type 2 diabetes. Today I'm going to answer the question, is garlic good for diabetes. But before we get into that, make sure you download my free diabetes management book which also includes a diabetes grocery shopping guide (foods to eat and avoid).
I am a huge fan of garlic. My wife, however, isn’t. So it is a battle at times when we eat Italian food. I cannot even think of eating a pasta dish without a buttery loaf of garlic bread on the table. She can hardly stand the smell or even the thought of garlic. But to her credit, she toughs it out when we both want a avocado and blood sugar nice plate of ziti or manicotti.
Most people have a distinct opinion on garlic. They either love it or they hate it. There usually isn’t much “in between” thoughts about it.
Like onions, shallots and leaks, garlic is a member of the lilly family. Is it an herb? Or is it a spice? Or is it a vegetable? Or is it a fruit? The bulb grows underground, it has a stalk and leaves.
In the blood sugar level 29 most general terms, without going into why, garlic is a vegetable. It is also an herb. And to some people it stinks.
But what about garlic and diabetes?
Garlic has been used for thousands of years as both a traditional medicine and a seasoning. Today, garlic supplements are marketed to help lower cholesterol, help in the fight of cancer, heart diseases, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and arthritis.
The Berkeley Wellness Center at the University of California says that one of the key components of garlic is allicin, a sulfur compound formed in raw garlic after a clove is cut or crushed. But scientists cannot agree if allicin is the main beneficial ingredient. As a matter of fact, they can’t agree on which component is most important.
Looking at the range of claims by supplement companies and others, here is the truth about garlic.
In regards to lowering LDL or “bad” cholesterol: A 2007 study from Stanford University found no benefit when it tested raw garlic and two popular supplements for six months in people with high LDL.
There’s no evidence that garlic actually prevents heart attacks.
In regards to high blood pressure: There are a few short-term studies with limited participants that have garlic has a small impact on blood pressure.
In regards to cancer: The evidence is mixed, at best.
In regards to colds: A 2012 study found that garlic did not reduce the incidence of colds (or flu) but it did reduce the serverity.
For other conditions, like diabetes there’s no good evidence of benefit.
So is garlic good for diabetes? It will not cure your diabetes. In some it may help lower your blood sugar, but there is no science to prove it. Is it bad for diabetes? No. If you like garlic, use it. Just don’t expect that garlic supplement to take the place of your medication for diabetes.
I hope this answered your question is garlic good or bad for diabetes. Don’t forget to get your diabetes management book.
Let me know if you have any other diabetes related questions.
