Ask Dr Mike: Steel Cut Vs. Rolled Oats [cd5f4e]

2025-07-26

Post Time: 2025-07-26

The human body is a complex system that relies on various factors to maintain optimal health. One of these critical aspects is blood sugar regulation. Maintaining a stable blood sugar range is essential for preventing serious health issues such as diabetes and heart disease.

Blood Sugar Ranges: The Good, the Bad, and the Necessary Checks

A normal fasting blood glucose level should be between 70-99 mg/dL. However, fluctuations in this range can occur due to various factors including diet, exercise, stress levels, sleep quality, medication (if taken), and genetics. A high blood sugar spike can lead to symptoms like excessive thirst and urination while a low drop may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.

Fighting Insulin Resistance: The Key to Maintaining Stable Blood Sugar

Insulin sensitivity plays a vital role in regulating blood glucose levels. When insulin is released into the bloodstream, it helps cells absorb sugar for energy production. However, some individuals are resistant to this hormone, leading their bodies to produce more insulin which can result in elevated blood sugar ranges.

Exercise and Diet: The Dynamic Duo of Blood Sugar Control

Regular physical activity not only aids weight management but also boosts insulin sensitivity. Activities like brisk walking or jogging improve glucose metabolism by enhancing the uptake of glucose into cells thereby reducing post-meal spikes.

Dietary choices, particularly those high in fiber content (found abundantly in fruits and vegetables), slow down carbohydrate digestion which reduces peak blood sugar values following meals.

Understanding The Impact Of Stress On Blood Sugar Levels

Stress is a critical aspect that influences fluctuations in the normal range. When stressed, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol into the bloodstream. High levels of cortisol can lead to elevated fasting glucose readings by altering liver function thereby affecting insulin sensitivity and overall blood sugar regulation.

Maintaining optimal stress levels either through techniques such as yoga or simply managing work-life balance may help mitigate this issue.

Sleep, A Vital Yet Often Neglected Factor In Blood Sugar Regulation

Adequate sleep quality is essential for physiological processes including those that regulate glucose metabolism. Poor nighttime rest can impair insulin function and sensitivity thereby negatively affecting blood sugar spikes during the day. Sleeping at least 7-8 hours every night will support overall health goals.

The Role of Supplements in Supporting Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Some nutritional supplements, rich in chromium or cinnamon for example, may help stabilize blood glucose levels by influencing metabolic pathways involved in glucose metabolism and insulin function. Consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any vitamins into your regimen as they can interact with current medications.

Maintaining stable normal blood sugar ranges is critical to preventing long-term health complications including diabetes which significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease among other issues. Through awareness, education, and making informed choices about diet, exercise, sleep quality, stress management techniques – you can maintain optimal physiological function and healthy living goals thereby safeguarding overall well-being.

In this installment of Ask Dr. Mike, Dr. Mike addresses the question, Which is better - rolled oats or steel cut oats? The following differences between rolled and steel cut oats are discussed: - glycemic index - satiety - insulin and blood sugar response - preparation - taste Connect with Dr. Mike! Facebook: Twitter: Google+: Instagram: About Dr. Mike: Mike Roussell, PhD is the Head of Nutrition at PEAK Performance. Dr. Mike has a diverse nutritional background serving as a what causes blood sugar to fluctuate consultant to professional athletes, executives as well as pharmaceutical and food companies. Dr. Mike is things to lower blood sugar quickly most well-known for his blend of nutritional science and psychology which helps clients make long lasting and power changes to their body and health. Dr. Mike holds a bachelor's degree in biochemistry and a doctoral in nutrition. He is the author of the 6 Pillars of Nutrition. He blood sugar level after drinking coffee maintains a popular nutrition and weight loss blog at
Ask Dr Mike: Steel Cut Vs. Rolled Oats
Ask Dr Mike: Steel Cut Vs. Rolled Oats [cd5f4e]