105 glucose. Prediabetes: Understanding Borderline Diabetes Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
What are the risk factors for prediabetes. How is borderline diabetes diagnosed. What lifestyle changes can help manage prediabetes. Can prediabetes be reversed. What complications may arise from untreated prediabetes. How often should at-risk individuals be screened for prediabetes. What role does genetics play in developing prediabetes.
What is Prediabetes and Why Should You Be Concerned?
Prediabetes, also known as borderline diabetes, is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. This precursor state is a crucial warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. Approximately 25% of people with prediabetes progress to type 2 diabetes within 3-5 years, and up to 70% may develop diabetes at some point in their lives if preventive measures aren’t taken.
Healthcare professionals may refer to prediabetes using alternative terms such as impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose. Regardless of the terminology, the implications remain the same: it’s a condition that demands attention and proactive management.
Recognizing the Silent Symptoms of Prediabetes
One of the challenges with prediabetes is its often asymptomatic nature. Many individuals are unaware they have the condition until:
- A doctor performs routine blood glucose tests and urinalysis
- The condition progresses to full-blown type 2 diabetes
- A related complication, such as a heart attack, occurs
As blood sugar levels remain elevated, some people may begin to experience symptoms similar to those of type 2 diabetes, including:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
However, it’s important to note that most individuals with prediabetes will not exhibit noticeable symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular screenings for those at risk.
Identifying Risk Factors for Prediabetes
Understanding the risk factors for prediabetes is crucial for early detection and prevention. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) has identified several conditions and factors that can increase the likelihood of developing prediabetes:
- Obesity, particularly when accompanied by a large waist circumference
- High blood pressure
- Elevated triglyceride levels
- Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol
- Sedentary lifestyle with low levels of physical activity
- Family history of type 2 diabetes
Additionally, the American Heart Association (AHA) highlights lifestyle factors that may contribute to prediabetes development:
- Chronic stress
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Recent research has also linked regular consumption of sugary beverages to an increased risk of metabolic diseases, including prediabetes. A 2017 review found that individuals who frequently consume sugar-sweetened drinks face a higher risk of developing conditions like hypertension and elevated blood glucose and triglyceride levels.
The Role of Genetics and Other Contributing Factors
While lifestyle choices play a significant role in prediabetes development, genetic factors cannot be overlooked. A family history of type 2 diabetes suggests a genetic predisposition to the condition. However, it’s important to remember that having a genetic risk doesn’t guarantee the development of prediabetes or diabetes; it simply means individuals with this risk factor should be more vigilant about their health.
Other factors that may increase the risk of prediabetes include:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Previous episodes of high blood sugar levels
- Certain racial or ethnic backgrounds (e.g., African American, Asian American, Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander)
- History of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
- Certain medical treatments, such as glucocorticoids or atypical antipsychotic medications
Diagnostic Criteria and Screening Recommendations for Prediabetes
Diagnosing prediabetes typically involves blood tests to measure glucose levels. The most common diagnostic tools include:
- Glucose tolerance test: Measures how quickly the body processes sugar in the blood over a 2-hour period
- Fasting blood test: Measures blood sugar levels after a period of fasting
- A1C test: Provides an average of blood sugar levels over 2-3 months
According to the American Diabetes Association, prediabetes is diagnosed when test results show:
- Fasting blood sugar levels of 100-125 mg/dl
- Glucose tolerance levels of 140-199 mg/dl
- A1C test result of 5.7-6.4%
To ensure accuracy, doctors often repeat these tests to confirm that the readings are not due to temporary spikes in blood sugar.
Who Should Undergo Prediabetes Screening?
The NIDDK recommends prediabetes screening for individuals with the following risk factors:
- Age 45 or older
- BMI of 25 or higher
- Waist circumference larger than 40 inches in males or 35 inches in females
- Close relative with diabetes
- Conditions that increase insulin resistance (e.g., PCOS, acanthosis nigricans)
- Certain racial or ethnic backgrounds with higher diabetes risk
- History of gestational diabetes
- Arterial hardening diseases
For individuals with these risk factors, medical professionals advise repeating screening tests every 1-3 years.
Managing Prediabetes: Lifestyle Changes and Treatment Options
The good news about prediabetes is that it’s often reversible with appropriate lifestyle modifications. Here are some key strategies for managing prediabetes and reducing the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes:
1. Dietary Changes
Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial in managing prediabetes. Focus on:
- Whole grains and complex carbohydrates
- Lean proteins
- Fruits and vegetables
- Healthy fats (e.g., avocados, nuts, olive oil)
- Limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol consumption
2. Regular Physical Activity
Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Aim for:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
- Strength training exercises 2-3 times per week
- Reducing sedentary time by taking frequent breaks to stand or walk
3. Weight Management
For individuals who are overweight or obese, losing even a modest amount of weight can have a significant impact on prediabetes management. A 5-7% reduction in body weight has been shown to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 58%.
4. Stress Management
Chronic stress can contribute to insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels. Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can be beneficial.
5. Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking can improve insulin sensitivity and overall health, reducing the risk of prediabetes progression and associated complications.
6. Medication
In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help manage prediabetes. Metformin is the most commonly prescribed medication for this purpose, particularly for individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Potential Complications of Untreated Prediabetes
While prediabetes itself may not cause immediate health problems, leaving it untreated can lead to various complications:
- Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease
- Potential nerve damage (neuropathy)
- Kidney problems
- Vision issues
It’s important to note that many of these complications are associated with long-term elevated blood sugar levels. By addressing prediabetes early, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing these health issues.
The Importance of Regular Monitoring and Follow-up Care
For individuals diagnosed with prediabetes, regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential components of effective management. This typically involves:
- Periodic blood glucose testing
- Regular check-ups with healthcare providers
- Ongoing education about diabetes prevention and management
- Adjusting treatment plans as needed based on progress and changes in health status
Healthcare providers may recommend more frequent monitoring for individuals with multiple risk factors or those who have difficulty managing their blood sugar levels.
Emerging Research and Future Directions in Prediabetes Management
As our understanding of prediabetes continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for prevention and treatment. Some areas of current interest include:
- The role of the gut microbiome in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity
- Personalized nutrition approaches based on individual genetic and metabolic profiles
- Novel pharmacological interventions targeting specific pathways involved in glucose regulation
- The potential of digital health technologies in supporting lifestyle modifications and monitoring blood sugar levels
These emerging areas of research hold promise for more effective and personalized approaches to prediabetes management in the future.
Empowering Individuals: Taking Control of Prediabetes
Understanding and managing prediabetes is a crucial step in preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes and its associated complications. By recognizing risk factors, undergoing regular screenings, and implementing lifestyle changes, individuals can take control of their health and significantly reduce their risk of developing diabetes.
It’s important to remember that prediabetes is not a definitive sentence – with the right interventions and support, many people can reverse the condition and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Empowering individuals with knowledge about prediabetes and providing them with the tools to make informed decisions about their health is key to tackling this growing public health concern.
If you believe you may be at risk for prediabetes, don’t hesitate to speak with your healthcare provider about getting screened. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in your long-term health outcomes and quality of life.
Borderline diabetes (prediabetes): Symptoms, causes, and treatments
Borderline diabetes, known as prediabetes, is where a person’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition that can progress to type 2 diabetes.
Research shows that this progression occurs in about 25% of people with prediabetes within 3–5 years. Overall, up to 70% of people with prediabetes will develop diabetes at some point in their life.
Doctors may also refer to borderline diabetes as impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose.
This article looks at how to recognize risk factors for prediabetes, manage the condition, and prevent type 2 diabetes from developing.
Borderline diabetes does not have clear symptoms. Some people may not be aware that they have it until:
- a doctor performs a blood glucose test and urinalysis
- it has progressed to type 2 diabetes
- a complication occurs, such as a heart attack
If a person’s blood sugar level remains high, they may begin to develop some symptoms of type 2 diabetes. These include frequent urination and increased thirst.
However, most people will not know they have prediabetes until they receive testing.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), a range of other conditions and factors can increase the risk of prediabetes, including:
- obesity, especially when it involves a large waist size
- high blood pressure
- high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat
- low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good,” cholesterol
- low levels of physical activity
People with a family history of type 2 diabetes may also have an increased risk, suggesting that genetics play a role.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the following lifestyle factors may also be a risk for prediabetes in some people:
- raised stress levels
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
Regularly consuming high sugar drinks may also increase the risk. A 2017 review found that people who regularly drink sugary beverages face an increased risk of metabolic diseases, such as high blood pressure and high levels of blood glucose and triglycerides. These metabolic conditions can lead to prediabetes and diabetes.
People who lead an inactive lifestyle also have a higher risk of taking in too many calories without burning them through exercise.
Other people who may be at risk of developing prediabetes include those who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or have experienced instances of high blood sugar levels in the past.
Anyone with any of these risk factors may benefit from a prediabetes screening to check whether they have the condition.
A doctor typically uses blood tests to diagnose prediabetes. A glucose tolerance test is particularly useful because it measures how quickly the body can process the sugar in the blood in a 2-hour period.
Other options include a fasting blood test, which measures blood sugar levels after a person has not eaten for a specific period, and an A1C test, which measures the average blood sugar levels over 2–3 months. People do not need to fast or take any special liquids or medications for the A1C test, and it gives reliable results.
The American Diabetes Association states that a doctor will diagnose prediabetes when test results show the following measurements:
- fasting blood sugar levels of 100–125 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl)
- glucose tolerance levels of 140–199 mg/dl
- an A1C test result of 5.7–6.4%
A doctor will often re-test these levels to confirm that the readings are not due to one-off spikes in blood sugar.
Who should undergo screening for prediabetes?
The NIDDK recommends that people with the following risk factors undergo a prediabetes screening:
- an age of 45 years or over
- a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher
- a waist circumference larger than 40 inches in males or 35 inches in females
- a close relative with diabetes
- a condition that increases insulin resistance, including PCOS, acanthosis nigricans, and non-alcohol-related steatohepatitis
- certain racial or ethnic backgrounds, including African American, Asian American, Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander
- a history of gestational diabetes, which is diabetes during pregnancy
- having given birth to an infant weighing more than 9 pounds
- having a disease that hardens the arteries
- recent treatment with glucocorticoids or atypical antipsychotic medications
If a doctor identifies any of these risk factors, they may recommend that the person has a screening to check their blood glucose levels.
Medical professionals advise repeating screening tests every 1–3 years for people with these risk factors.
The NIDDK has an official resource that people can use to check their diabetes risk.
However, anyone who is concerned that they may have borderline diabetes should visit a doctor for testing and a diagnosis.
Prediabetes is the stage before type 2 diabetes develops. By this stage, blood sugar and insulin resistance may start reaching harmful levels.
Prediabetes does not usually cause active symptoms, and most people will not be aware that they have the condition until it progresses to diabetes and starts causing severe health problems.
Therefore, it is advisable for anyone who is at risk of developing diabetes to undergo regular screening. Risk factors include high BMI and waist circumference, an age of 45 years or older, and the presence of other cardiovascular diseases.
Prediabetes is often reversible with a sustained exercise program and a balanced, low sugar diet.
Below, we answer some commonly asked questions about prediabetes.
Which foods should I eat if I have prediabetes?
Fat and fiber tend to slow absorption and lower what is called the glycemic index (GI) of foods. Low GI fruits and vegetables, such as stone-ground whole wheat bread, rolled or steel-cut oatmeal, nonstarchy vegetables, and whole fruits are good choices. Experts consider a low GI food to have a rating of 55 or less. A person can use this database to find the GI of common foods.
What are the complications of prediabetes?
Even if it does not progress to type 2 diabetes, prediabetes can lead to long-term cardiovascular and kidney damage.
Can children have prediabetes?
In a 2019 study involving 5,786 people, 18% of the 2,606 adolescents — those aged 12–18 years — had prediabetes. Among the 3,180 young adults, the prevalence was 24%.
Many children who develop type 2 diabetes do not receive a diagnosis until adolescence. This is, in part, because puberty hormones can make it harder for the body to regulate insulin. Parents and caregivers can help prevent diabetes in children by encouraging them to eat a balanced diet and engage in plenty of physical activity.
Can prediabetes progress to type 1 diabetes?
Prediabetes refers to a metabolic state that is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. It cannot evolve into type 1 diabetes. However, there is research on a parallel disease called pre-type 1 diabetes, in which a person’s immune system displays certain characteristics that indicate progression to type 1 diabetes.
Learn about the differences between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
How long does it take to reverse prediabetes?
With a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and prescribed medical interventions, a person may be able to reverse prediabetes in about 3 years.
Borderline diabetes (prediabetes): Symptoms, causes, and treatments
Borderline diabetes, known as prediabetes, is where a person’s blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition that can progress to type 2 diabetes.
Research shows that this progression occurs in about 25% of people with prediabetes within 3–5 years. Overall, up to 70% of people with prediabetes will develop diabetes at some point in their life.
Doctors may also refer to borderline diabetes as impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose.
This article looks at how to recognize risk factors for prediabetes, manage the condition, and prevent type 2 diabetes from developing.
Borderline diabetes does not have clear symptoms. Some people may not be aware that they have it until:
- a doctor performs a blood glucose test and urinalysis
- it has progressed to type 2 diabetes
- a complication occurs, such as a heart attack
If a person’s blood sugar level remains high, they may begin to develop some symptoms of type 2 diabetes. These include frequent urination and increased thirst.
However, most people will not know they have prediabetes until they receive testing.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), a range of other conditions and factors can increase the risk of prediabetes, including:
- obesity, especially when it involves a large waist size
- high blood pressure
- high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat
- low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good,” cholesterol
- low levels of physical activity
People with a family history of type 2 diabetes may also have an increased risk, suggesting that genetics play a role.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the following lifestyle factors may also be a risk for prediabetes in some people:
- raised stress levels
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
Regularly consuming high sugar drinks may also increase the risk. A 2017 review found that people who regularly drink sugary beverages face an increased risk of metabolic diseases, such as high blood pressure and high levels of blood glucose and triglycerides. These metabolic conditions can lead to prediabetes and diabetes.
People who lead an inactive lifestyle also have a higher risk of taking in too many calories without burning them through exercise.
Other people who may be at risk of developing prediabetes include those who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or have experienced instances of high blood sugar levels in the past.
Anyone with any of these risk factors may benefit from a prediabetes screening to check whether they have the condition.
A doctor typically uses blood tests to diagnose prediabetes. A glucose tolerance test is particularly useful because it measures how quickly the body can process the sugar in the blood in a 2-hour period.
Other options include a fasting blood test, which measures blood sugar levels after a person has not eaten for a specific period, and an A1C test, which measures the average blood sugar levels over 2–3 months. People do not need to fast or take any special liquids or medications for the A1C test, and it gives reliable results.
The American Diabetes Association states that a doctor will diagnose prediabetes when test results show the following measurements:
- fasting blood sugar levels of 100–125 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl)
- glucose tolerance levels of 140–199 mg/dl
- an A1C test result of 5.7–6.4%
A doctor will often re-test these levels to confirm that the readings are not due to one-off spikes in blood sugar.
Who should undergo screening for prediabetes?
The NIDDK recommends that people with the following risk factors undergo a prediabetes screening:
- an age of 45 years or over
- a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher
- a waist circumference larger than 40 inches in males or 35 inches in females
- a close relative with diabetes
- a condition that increases insulin resistance, including PCOS, acanthosis nigricans, and non-alcohol-related steatohepatitis
- certain racial or ethnic backgrounds, including African American, Asian American, Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander
- a history of gestational diabetes, which is diabetes during pregnancy
- having given birth to an infant weighing more than 9 pounds
- having a disease that hardens the arteries
- recent treatment with glucocorticoids or atypical antipsychotic medications
If a doctor identifies any of these risk factors, they may recommend that the person has a screening to check their blood glucose levels.
Medical professionals advise repeating screening tests every 1–3 years for people with these risk factors.
The NIDDK has an official resource that people can use to check their diabetes risk.
However, anyone who is concerned that they may have borderline diabetes should visit a doctor for testing and a diagnosis.
Prediabetes is the stage before type 2 diabetes develops. By this stage, blood sugar and insulin resistance may start reaching harmful levels.
Prediabetes does not usually cause active symptoms, and most people will not be aware that they have the condition until it progresses to diabetes and starts causing severe health problems.
Therefore, it is advisable for anyone who is at risk of developing diabetes to undergo regular screening. Risk factors include high BMI and waist circumference, an age of 45 years or older, and the presence of other cardiovascular diseases.
Prediabetes is often reversible with a sustained exercise program and a balanced, low sugar diet.
Below, we answer some commonly asked questions about prediabetes.
Which foods should I eat if I have prediabetes?
Fat and fiber tend to slow absorption and lower what is called the glycemic index (GI) of foods. Low GI fruits and vegetables, such as stone-ground whole wheat bread, rolled or steel-cut oatmeal, nonstarchy vegetables, and whole fruits are good choices. Experts consider a low GI food to have a rating of 55 or less. A person can use this database to find the GI of common foods.
What are the complications of prediabetes?
Even if it does not progress to type 2 diabetes, prediabetes can lead to long-term cardiovascular and kidney damage.
Can children have prediabetes?
In a 2019 study involving 5,786 people, 18% of the 2,606 adolescents — those aged 12–18 years — had prediabetes. Among the 3,180 young adults, the prevalence was 24%.
Many children who develop type 2 diabetes do not receive a diagnosis until adolescence. This is, in part, because puberty hormones can make it harder for the body to regulate insulin. Parents and caregivers can help prevent diabetes in children by encouraging them to eat a balanced diet and engage in plenty of physical activity.
Can prediabetes progress to type 1 diabetes?
Prediabetes refers to a metabolic state that is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. It cannot evolve into type 1 diabetes. However, there is research on a parallel disease called pre-type 1 diabetes, in which a person’s immune system displays certain characteristics that indicate progression to type 1 diabetes.
Learn about the differences between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
How long does it take to reverse prediabetes?
With a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and prescribed medical interventions, a person may be able to reverse prediabetes in about 3 years.
Benefits and harms of carbohydrates
Carbohydrates taste good, help you achieve phenomenal muscle pumps, and are widely considered to be the healthiest of all nutrients.
And what are their shortcomings?
The flip side of the coin here is the accumulation of fat. A constant carbohydrate-rich diet stimulates the release of insulin, which in turn causes a rise in body fat levels. The art is in finding the right balance between their type and timing, as not all carbs are the same.
Eating lots of the wrong carbs at the wrong time of day can turn even a genetically gifted athlete into a fat-filled endomorph.
What is the need for carbohydrates?
The scourge of misinformed dieters is that carbohydrates are actually our body’s main source of energy. During digestion, the main types of carbohydrates, starches and sugars, are broken down into glucose, better known as blood sugar. Blood glucose provides the necessary energy for our brain and central nervous system.
Carbohydrates are needed in the daily diet so that the protein needed to build tissues is not wasted as an energy source, where it is needed for recovery. They have the same calorie content as protein. If you eat too many carbohydrates, more than can be converted into glucose or glycogen (which is stored in the liver and muscles), the result, as we all know only too well, is fat. When the body needs more fuel, fat is converted back to glucose and body weight is reduced.
Don’t be too light on carbohydrates. They are just as essential to health as any other nutrient, and a gram of carbohydrates contains the same 4 calories as a gram of protein. While there are no official guidelines for carbohydrate consumption, a minimum of 50 grams per day is recommended.
What is the glycemic index? In fact, this is an indicator that determines the change in the content of glucose (sugar) in the blood, that is, how much your blood sugar increases depending on a particular food eaten. The higher the glycemic index of a product, the higher when it enters the body, the blood sugar level will rise, which, in turn, will cause the body to produce a powerful portion of insulin, with the help of which the carbohydrates eaten will not be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscles, but will be sent mainly to fat depots.
I would like to note that the glycemic index is a relative concept. Glucose was taken as the basis for its compilation, its glycemic index was equated to 100, and the indices of all other products are a certain number of percent relative to the glycemic index of glucose. For example, the GI (short for glycemic index) of hot boiled potatoes is 98, the GI of white bread is 69, and the GI of raisins is 64.
But what are the GIs of some other products: Maltose-105, Glucose-100, Hot boiled potatoes-98, Carrot-92, White Rice-72, Wholemeal Bread-72, New Potato-70, White Bread-69, Mars Bar-68, Brown Rice-66, Raisin-64, Sweet Corn-59, Mango -51, Oatmeal-49, Bananas-49, Kiwi-49, Sweet Potato-48, Orange Juice-46, Wholemeal Pasta-42, Grapes-42, Oranges-40, Peaches-40, Apples-39, Yoghurt- 36, Ice cream-36, Whole milk-34, Sausages-23, Cherry-20. However, in pursuit of a slim figure, you should not go too far in terms of choosing carbohydrates with the lowest GI. For example, the GI of ice cream is quite low – only 36, but this does not mean at all that ice cream is a product ideal for a diet aimed at losing weight. I would like to draw attention to another feature of the GI: if carbohydrates are consumed hot, then their GI is significantly higher than when cold. And one more thing: if a carbohydrate-containing product is consumed together with proteins and, moreover, carbohydrates, then the GI of such a product becomes significantly lower. In other words, if you eat a bowl of hot potatoes with a piece of fatty meat, then in this case, carbohydrates from potatoes will enter the bloodstream 2-3 times slower.
Relationship between estrogen and risk of cardiovascular disease
High insulin resistance and reduced glucose tolerance are recognized risk factors for cardiovascular disease. It is known that some estrogens lead to an increase in insulin resistance and a decrease in glucose tolerance, in other words, estrogens accelerate the process of increasing blood glucose, so women who consume a large amount of carbohydrates with a high glycemic index have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease than men.
Diet to normalize cholesterol levels.
“Bad” and “Good” cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is vital for a person. It is part of the shells (membranes) of all cells of the body, a lot of cholesterol in the nervous tissue, many hormones are formed from cholesterol. About 80% of cholesterol is produced by the body itself, the remaining 20% comes from food. Atherosclerosis occurs when there is a lot of low-density cholesterol in the blood. It damages the shell of the inner wall of the vessel, accumulates in it, resulting in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which then turn into slurry, calcify and clog the vessel. High levels of cholesterol in the blood – an increased risk of earning heart disease. In our organs it contains about 200 g, and especially in the nervous tissue and brain.
For a long time, cholesterol was considered literally the personification of evil. Foods containing cholesterol were outlawed, and cholesterol-free diets were extremely popular. The main accusation was based on the fact that atherosclerotic plaques on the inner surface of blood vessels contain cholesterol. These plaques cause atherosclerosis, that is, a violation of the elasticity and patency of blood vessels, and this, in turn, is the cause of heart attacks, strokes, brain diseases and many other ailments. In fact, it turned out that for the prevention of atherosclerosis, it is important not only to monitor cholesterol levels, but also to pay attention to many factors. Infectious diseases, physical activity, the state of the nervous system, and finally, heredity – all this affects the vessels and can provoke atherosclerosis or, conversely, protect against it.
And with cholesterol itself, everything turned out to be not so simple. Scientists have found that there is both “bad” and “good” cholesterol. And for the prevention of atherosclerosis, it is not enough to reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol. It is important to maintain the “good” level at the proper level, without which the normal functioning of the internal organs is impossible.
Every day the body of an average person synthesizes from 1 to 5 g of cholesterol. The largest proportion of cholesterol (80%) is synthesized in the liver, some is produced by the cells of the body, and 300-500 mg comes from food. Where are we spending all this? About 20% of the total amount of cholesterol in the body is found in the brain and spinal cord, where this substance is a structural component of the myelin sheath of nerves. In the liver, bile acids are synthesized from cholesterol, which are necessary for the emulsification and absorption of fats in the small intestine. For these purposes, 60-80% of the daily cholesterol formed in the body is spent. But most (2-4%) goes to the formation of steroid hormones (sex hormones, hormones of the adrenal cortex, etc.). A certain amount of cholesterol is used for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet rays and for the retention of moisture in the cells of the body.
Thanks to laboratory studies conducted by a group of researchers in Germany and Denmark, it was found that a component of blood plasma that can not only bind, but also neutralize dangerous bacterial toxins, are low-density lipoproteins – carriers of the so-called “bad” cholesterol. It turns out that “bad” cholesterol helps to maintain the human immune system. Therefore, you just need to ensure that the level of “bad” cholesterol does not exceed a known norm, and everything will be in order.
In men, a strict adherence to cholesterol-free foods can adversely affect sexual activity, and amenorrhea often occurs in women who are too active in the fight against cholesterol. Dutch doctors claim that the low content of this substance in the blood is responsible for the spread of mental illness among Europeans. Experts advise: if you have depression, you need to do a blood test for cholesterol – perhaps it is precisely its lack that deprives you of the joy of life.
Norm of cholesterol in the blood
According to the official guidelines of the European Atherosclerosis Society (a highly respected organization in the West), “normal” blood fat levels should be:
1. Total cholesterol – less than 5 mmol / l.
2. Low density lipoprotein cholesterol – less than 3 mmol / l.
3. High density lipoprotein cholesterol – more than 1.5 mmol / l.
4. Triglycerides – less than 2.0 mmol / l.
It’s not enough to just cut out foods that cause the production of “bad” cholesterol. It is important to regularly consume foods containing the so-called “good” cholesterol, as well as fiber, pectin, in order to maintain its normal level and help remove excess “bad” cholesterol.
• Healthy cholesterol is found in fatty fish such as tuna or mackerel. Therefore, eat 100 g of sea fish 2 times a week. This will help keep your blood thin and prevent blood clots from forming, which are at high risk of developing high cholesterol levels.
• Nuts are a very fatty food, but the fats that are found in a variety of nuts are mostly monounsaturated, that is, very useful for the body. It is recommended to eat 30 g of nuts 5 times a week, and for medicinal purposes, you can use not only hazelnuts and walnuts, but also almonds, pine nuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, pistachios. Sunflower seeds, sesame and flax seeds perfectly increase the level of good cholesterol. 30 g of nuts you eat, using, for example, 7 walnuts or 22 almonds, 18 cashews or 47 pistachios, 8 Brazil nuts.
• From vegetable oils give preference to olive, soybean, flaxseed oil, as well as oil from sesame seeds. But in no case do not fry in oils, but add them to cooked food. It’s also good to just eat olives and any soy products (but make sure that the packaging says that the product does not contain genetically modified components).
• To remove “bad” cholesterol, be sure to eat 25-35 grams of fiber per day. Fiber is found in bran, whole grains, seeds, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and greens. Bran drink on an empty stomach 2-3 teaspoons, be sure to drink them with a glass of water.
• Do not forget about apples and other fruits containing pectin, which helps to remove excess cholesterol from the blood vessels. There are a lot of pectins in citrus fruits, sunflowers, beets, watermelon peels. This valuable substance improves metabolism, removes toxins and salts of heavy metals, which is especially important in adverse environmental conditions.
• Juice therapy is indispensable for removing excess cholesterol from the body. From fruit juices, orange, pineapple and grapefruit are especially useful (especially with the addition of lemon juice), as well as apple. Any berry juices are also very good. For vegetable juices, traditional medicine recommends powerful beet and carrot juices, but if your liver is not working perfectly, start with a teaspoon of juice.
• Green tea is very useful for high cholesterol, which kills two birds with one stone – it helps to increase the level of “good” cholesterol in the blood and reduces the indicators of “bad”. Cholesterol is necessary for the human body, but its excess is definitely harmful. It is also dangerous to deviate from the norm in the direction of lowering the concentration of cholesterol. And remember – the probability of earning atherosclerosis is minimal if you:
• cheerful, at odds with yourself and with the people around you;
• do not smoke;
• are not fond of alcohol;
• love long walks in the fresh air;
• are not overweight and have normal blood pressure;
• do not have deviations in the hormonal sphere.
Finished products Cholesterol (mg):
Milk 6%, ryazhenka 1 cup – 47. Boiled beef – 100 g -94. Kefir 1%, milk 1% – 1 cup 6. Boiled lamb 100g -98. Condensed milk 1 tsp -2. Pork without fat boiled 100g -88. Milk 3%, kefir 3% 1 cup -29. Rabbit boiled 100 g -90. Skimmed kefir, skimmed milk (skimmed) 1 cup -2. Boiled sausage 100g – 60. Raw smoked sausage 100g – 90. Sour cream 30% 1 tsp -5. Cooked-smoked sausage 100g – 90. Sour cream 30% 1/2 cup -91. Sausages (1 pc.) -32. Cream 20% 1/2 cup -63. Fat, loin, brisket 100g – 80. Fat-free cottage cheese 100g – 9. Kidneys 100g – 1126. Fat cottage cheese 18% 100g – 57. Tongue 100g – 90. Cottage cheese 9% 100g – 32. Liver 100g 438 Curd cheese – 100 g 71 Fatty cheese – 25 g 23 Lamb fat 1 tsp. 4 Processed cheese and salted cheeses (brynza, etc.) 25g – 17. Mayonnaise 1 tsp – 5. Canned fish in tomato 100g – 51. Milk ice cream 100g – 14. Canned fish in own juice 100g – 95. Ice cream ice cream 100g – 47. Creamy ice cream 100g – 37. Canned cod liver 100g – 746. Butter 1 tsp. – 12. Medium fat fish – sea bass – 88. Egg (yolk) – 202. Poultry meat (goose, duck) 100 g – 91. Low-fat fish – cod, saffron cod, hake, pike perch 100g – 65. Chickens, white meat – breast with skin 100g – 80. Chickens, dark meat – leg, back, neck with skin 100g – 91. Shrimps 100g – 150. Crabs , squid 100g – 95. Chicken stomach 100g – 212. Fish caviar (red, black) 100 g – 300.
Discount for Glucose and Maltose
Glucose and maltose
Myande Group is a leading provider of equipment and engineering services in the glucose and maltose industry.
Myande Group focus on providing one-stop solutions covering master plan, tech. process, R&D, equipment manufacturing, automatic control system, data integration, installation, installation supervision, commissioning, training, etc.
1. Starch Milk Mixing
From storage, the starch is fed into the buffer tank and mixed with water to a concentration of 35%, and then pumped into the main tank and auto-adjusting the pH to 5. 8-6.2, and then a moderate enzyme liquefaction will be added and ready for liquefaction.
2. Starch Milk Liquefaction
Disposable liquefaction jets at 105℃, after liquefaction, the DE value is 12-18, the liquid is clear and the protein is in a good flaky state.
The ejector is imported from USA with high liquefaction speed and monosaccharide content can reach up to 95.5%.
3.saccharification
Liquefied starch milk will decompose continuously under the enzyme saccharification function under the following condition: temperature 60~63℃, PH 4.0~4.5, time 24~48h.
4.Protein filtration
After saccharification, the material will be fed to remove protein residues, and the residue can be used for feeding.
5. Deodorizing filter
Removing organic impurities from the sugar solution and improving the light transmission of the final product by active carbon. Adopt high efficiency plate type hermetic filter, use full automatic filtration technology, realize automatic control program, automatic carbon discharge, unmanned operations, and reduce labor intensity of workers.
6. Ion exchange
Ion exchange resins are used to remove the mineral from the solution, the method makes the solution through cation exchange resin, anion exchange resin, cation exchange resin and anion exchange resin in a certain sequence. The goal for ion exchange is to reduce the calcium content and ensure that the degree of discoloration is produced.
7.evaporation
It uses multiple falling film evaporator effect to make the concentration up to 75~82%.
What can we do for you?
We focus on providing one-stop-shop services covering the master plan, technical development. process, R&D, equipment manufacturing, automatic control system, data integration, installation, installation supervision, commissioning, training, etc. Our bespoke solutions come from a deep understanding of your needs and we have the ability to complete every project from initial concept to commissioning.
Tell us about your needs
Solutions tailored to your needs
Master Plan: After preparing the land, the next thing you should consider is the master plan, which is an important foundation for sustainable and cost-effective production. Contact us for help and we will present you with a design of your plant, taking into account the supply of water, steam, electricity, etc.
Development of tech. process: Combining our engineering experience, industry know-how and practical skills with your knowledge, we offer an optimized and customized process design for your plant.
3D Factory Design: Based on the factory plan combined with the actual situation, we can design a 3D model of the whole factory. All equipment, pipelines and instruments, every detail can be displayed in the model, which will not only give you an intuitive understanding of the plant, but also provide general information support for plant construction, equipment installation and future expansion.
Automated control system: We offer cost effective and most efficient process automation solutions for the entire production line. Our RES automatic control system is developed based on the PLC/DCS system.
Data integration: In terms of the overall operation of the plant, Myande intelligent data integration management system collects the basic data of raw grain purchasing, warehousing, processing, inventory, sales and logistics, relying on the interconnected network system of each workshop. It provides accurate and traceable real-time reports on current storage, processing and shipping.
Equipment Manufacturing: We have our own production base of more than 100,000 m2, integrating research and development, production and project management, which represents the advanced engineering capabilities in the industry.
Installation and commissioning: After all machines are installed, we offer on-site commissioning services to ensure consistent operation. Every movement of the machine requires reliable technical support from our experienced engineers.