How does blood glucose monitoring work. What are the target ranges for blood sugar levels. Why is regular monitoring crucial for managing diabetes. What are the potential complications of uncontrolled blood sugar levels. How to perform a blood glucose test at home.

The Basics of Blood Glucose Monitoring

Blood glucose monitoring is a crucial aspect of diabetes management. It involves regularly testing blood sugar levels to understand how various factors such as food, medication, and physical activity affect your diabetes. This information helps both you and your healthcare provider create an effective plan to manage your condition.

Portable blood glucose meters, known as glucometers, are the primary tools used for this purpose. These devices analyze a small blood sample, typically obtained from a fingertip, to determine your current blood sugar level. While a single reading provides valuable information, it’s important to note that blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day. Therefore, frequent testing and recording of results are essential for comprehensive diabetes management.

Where to Obtain Blood Glucose Monitoring Kits

Blood glucose monitoring kits and supplies can be obtained from various sources:

• Your doctor’s office
• A diabetes educator’s office
• Local pharmacies
• Online stores

These kits typically include a glucose meter, testing strips, lancets (small needles for pricking the skin), and a lancing device. Some kits may also come with a logbook for recording results, or they might offer the option to download readings to a computer for easier tracking and analysis.

Features of Modern Glucose Meters

Glucose meters have evolved significantly over the years, with various models offering different features to suit individual needs and preferences. Some notable features include:

• Audio capabilities for visually impaired users
• Backlit screens for improved visibility in low-light conditions
• Enhanced memory and data storage capabilities
• Preloaded test strips for those with limited hand dexterity
• USB ports for direct data transfer to computers

When choosing a glucose meter, consider factors such as cost, size, and any specific features that might be particularly beneficial for your situation. Discussing options with your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you make an informed decision.

The Importance of Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring

Regular blood glucose monitoring plays a vital role in diabetes management for several reasons:

1. It provides insights into how your body responds to different foods, activities, and medications.
2. It helps you and your healthcare team make informed decisions about medication dosages, exercise routines, and dietary choices.
3. It allows you to identify and address high or low blood sugar levels promptly, preventing potential complications.
4. It empowers you to take an active role in managing your diabetes and maintaining overall health.

Your healthcare provider will determine your target blood glucose range based on factors such as your age, type of diabetes, overall health, and other individual considerations. Striving to keep your blood sugar levels within this target range is crucial for minimizing the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Complications of Uncontrolled Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining blood sugar levels within the target range is essential for preventing both short-term and long-term complications associated with diabetes. Understanding these potential complications can further emphasize the importance of regular blood glucose monitoring.

Long-term Complications of High Blood Sugar

Persistently high blood sugar levels, if left untreated, can lead to several serious health issues:

• Heart disease
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Vision problems, including diabetic retinopathy
• Poor blood flow, which can lead to foot ulcers and slow-healing wounds
• Kidney disease (nephropathy)

Symptoms and Complications of Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can also cause immediate symptoms and potentially serious complications:

• Confusion
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Jitters or shakiness
• Sweating

In severe cases, low blood sugar can lead to seizures and coma. Regular monitoring helps you identify and address these fluctuations before they become severe.

How to Perform a Blood Glucose Test

Performing a blood glucose test at home is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get accurate results:

1. Gather your supplies: glucose meter, test strip, lancet, alcohol swab, and a bandage (if needed).
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. This step is crucial for preventing infection and ensuring accurate results.
3. Insert a test strip into your glucose meter.
4. Use the lancet to prick the side of your fingertip. This area tends to be less sensitive than the fingertip’s center.
5. Gently squeeze your finger to produce a small drop of blood.
6. Touch the edge of the test strip to the blood drop. The strip will draw up the blood automatically.
7. Wait for the meter to analyze the sample and display the result (usually within a minute).
8. Record the result in your logbook or digital tracking system.
9. Dispose of the used lancet and test strip safely.

Always follow the specific instructions provided with your glucose meter to ensure accurate results. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or a diabetes educator for guidance.

Recommended Frequency of Blood Glucose Testing

The frequency of blood glucose testing varies depending on the type of diabetes you have and your individual treatment plan. Here are some general guidelines:

For Type 1 Diabetes

People with type 1 diabetes typically need to test their blood glucose four or more times per day. This usually includes:

• Before meals
• After meals
• Before and after exercise
• Before bedtime
• More frequently when sick or experiencing unusual stress

For Type 2 Diabetes

The testing frequency for type 2 diabetes can vary widely depending on your treatment plan and how well your blood sugar is controlled. Your doctor will provide specific recommendations, which may range from several times a day to a few times a week.

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and your healthcare provider may recommend a different testing schedule based on your individual needs and circumstances. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding the frequency of blood glucose monitoring.

Target Blood Glucose Ranges

Understanding your target blood glucose range is crucial for effective diabetes management. The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology recommend the following general guidelines:

• Fasting and premeal glucose values: 80-130 mg/dL
• Post-prandial (after meal) glucose values: less than 180 mg/dL

However, it’s important to remember that these are general recommendations and may not be appropriate for everyone. Your target range should be individualized based on factors such as your age, the duration of your diabetes, any other health conditions you may have, and your overall treatment goals.

When your blood sugar level reaches 300 mg/dL or higher, it’s considered very high and requires immediate attention. This level can increase your risk of developing diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication that requires prompt medical treatment. If you consistently see readings at or above this level, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider for guidance on adjusting your treatment plan.

Maximizing the Benefits of Blood Glucose Monitoring

To get the most out of your blood glucose monitoring routine, consider the following tips:

1. Be consistent with your testing times to establish patterns and trends in your blood sugar levels.
2. Keep detailed records of your readings, including the time of day, your meals, physical activity, and any medications taken.
3. Look for patterns in your readings and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
4. Don’t be discouraged by occasional high or low readings. Instead, use them as learning opportunities to understand what might have caused the fluctuation.
5. Regularly calibrate your glucose meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure accuracy.
6. Consider using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system if you need more frequent data or struggle with frequent finger pricks.

Remember, blood glucose monitoring is a tool to help you better manage your diabetes. The insights gained from regular testing can empower you to make informed decisions about your diet, exercise, and medication, ultimately leading to better overall health and reduced risk of complications.

Addressing Common Concerns About Blood Glucose Monitoring

While blood glucose monitoring is an essential part of diabetes management, some individuals may have concerns or face challenges with the process. Let’s address some common issues:

Pain from Finger Pricks

Many people worry about the pain associated with frequent finger pricks. To minimize discomfort:

• Use the sides of your fingertips instead of the center, as these areas have fewer nerve endings.
• Rotate your testing sites to prevent soreness and calluses.
• Ensure your lancing device is set to the appropriate depth for your skin type.
• Consider alternative site testing (such as the forearm or thigh) when appropriate and approved by your healthcare provider.

Cost of Supplies

The ongoing cost of test strips and lancets can be a concern for some individuals. To manage expenses:

• Check if your insurance covers diabetes supplies and understand your coverage limits.
• Ask your healthcare provider about less expensive meter options that use more affordable test strips.
• Look for patient assistance programs offered by meter manufacturers.
• Consider buying supplies in bulk to reduce costs.

Accuracy Concerns

To ensure the accuracy of your blood glucose readings:

• Always wash your hands before testing to remove any substances that might affect the result.
• Check that your test strips are not expired and have been stored properly.
• Calibrate your meter regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Compare your meter’s results with a lab test periodically to ensure accuracy.

By addressing these concerns and finding solutions that work for you, you can make blood glucose monitoring a more comfortable and sustainable part of your diabetes management routine.

Leveraging Technology for Better Diabetes Management

As technology continues to advance, new tools and devices are emerging to make blood glucose monitoring and diabetes management more convenient and effective. Here are some technological advancements worth considering:

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems

CGM systems use a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid continuously. Benefits of CGM include:

• Real-time glucose readings throughout the day and night
• Alerts for high or low glucose levels
• Trend data to help predict and prevent glucose fluctuations
• Reduced need for finger prick tests

Smartphone Apps and Digital Logging

Many glucose meters now come with companion smartphone apps that allow you to:

• Log blood glucose readings automatically
• Track meals, medications, and physical activity
• Visualize trends and patterns in your data
• Share reports with your healthcare team

Insulin Pumps with Integrated CGM

For those who use insulin, some advanced systems combine an insulin pump with a CGM, offering features such as:

• Automated insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings
• Predictive low glucose suspend to help prevent hypoglycemia
• Customizable alert settings

While these technological advancements can greatly enhance diabetes management, it’s important to discuss the options with your healthcare provider to determine which tools are most appropriate for your individual needs and circumstances.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Blood Glucose Management

While regular blood glucose monitoring is crucial, it’s equally important to understand how lifestyle factors, particularly diet and exercise, impact your blood sugar levels. By combining monitoring with healthy lifestyle choices, you can achieve better overall diabetes management.

Dietary Considerations

Your food choices have a direct impact on your blood glucose levels. Consider the following dietary strategies:

• Focus on balanced meals that include a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
• Choose complex carbohydrates over simple sugars to help stabilize blood glucose levels.
• Monitor portion sizes to avoid overconsumption of carbohydrates.
• Incorporate fiber-rich foods, which can help slow the absorption of sugar and improve blood glucose control.
• Stay hydrated, as proper hydration can help your body regulate blood sugar more effectively.

The Benefits of Regular Physical Activity

Exercise plays a vital role in blood glucose management. Regular physical activity can:

• Increase insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to use glucose more effectively
• Help lower blood glucose levels during and after exercise
• Contribute to weight management, which can improve overall diabetes control
• Reduce stress, which can indirectly affect blood glucose levels

It’s important to monitor your blood glucose before, during, and after exercise, especially when starting a new routine or increasing intensity. This will help you understand how different types and durations of activity affect your blood sugar levels.

By combining regular blood glucose monitoring with mindful eating and consistent physical activity, you can gain better control over your diabetes and improve your overall health and well-being. Remember to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive management plan that addresses all aspects of your diabetes care.

Blood Glucose Monitoring: How It Works

Blood glucose monitoring

Testing your blood sugar level is one of the best ways to understand your diabetes and how different foods, medications, and activities affect your diabetes. Keeping track of your blood glucose can help you and your doctor make a plan to manage this condition.

People use portable blood glucose meters, called glucometers, to check their blood sugar levels. These work by analyzing a small amount of blood, usually from a fingertip.

A lancet lightly pricks your skin to obtain the blood. Meters tell you your current blood sugar. But, since blood sugar levels change, you need to test levels often and record them.

You can get blood glucose monitoring kits and supplies from:

• your doctor’s office
• a diabetes educator’s office
• a pharmacy
• online stores

You can discuss the price with your doctor or pharmacist. Glucose meters come with testing strips, small needles, or lancets, to prick your finger, and a device to hold the needle. The kit may include a logbook or you might be able to download the readings onto your computer.

Meters vary in cost and size. Some have added features to suit different needs and preferences. These may include:

• audio capabilities for people with vision impairment
• backlit screens to help you see them in low light
• additional memory or data storage
• preloaded test strips for people who have difficulty using their hands
• USB ports to load information directly to a computer

Regular glucose monitoring is one way people with diabetes can learn more about their condition. When it’s time to make important decisions about medication dosage, exercise, and diet, knowing your blood glucose levels will help you, your doctor, and the rest of your healthcare team.

By checking your blood glucose levels routinely, you’ll also know when your blood sugar is too high or too low, both of which can cause symptoms and serious health problems.

Your doctor will calculate the target range for your blood glucose based on your age, your type of diabetes, your overall health, and other factors. It’s important to keep your glucose levels within your target range as best as you can.

Complications of high and low blood sugar levels

If you don’t get treatment, high blood sugar levels can lead to long-term complications, including:

• heart disease
• nerve damage
• vision problems
• poor blood flow
• kidney disease

Low blood sugar levels can also cause symptoms that include:

• confusion
• weakness
• dizziness
• jitters
• sweating

Low blood sugar can also lead to serious complications, such as seizures and coma.

Risks from the blood glucose test are minimal and much lower than the risks of not monitoring your blood sugar levels.

If you share insulin needles and testing supplies with someone, you’re at an increased risk of spreading illnesses, such as:

• HIV
• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C

You should never share needles or finger-stick devices for any reason.

Before checking your blood glucose levels, make sure that you have:

• a finger-stick device to prick your finger, such as a lancet
• an alcohol swab to sterilize the puncture site
• a blood glucose monitor
• a bandage if bleeding continues beyond a few drops

Also, depending on the type of test you’re taking, you may need to adjust your meal schedule or time it around your meal, depending on your doctor’s instructions.

Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent infection at the finger-prick site. If you use alcohol wipes instead of washing, be sure to let the site dry before testing.

Next, put a testing strip into the meter. Prick your finger with the lancet to get a small drop of blood. Use the sides of the fingertips instead of the tip to decrease finger discomfort.

The blood goes on the test strip you inserted into the meter. Your monitor will analyze the blood and give you the blood glucose reading on its digital display usually within a minute.

Finger pricks rarely require a bandage, but you may want to use one if bleeding continues beyond a few drops. It’s important to follow all the instructions that came with your glucometer to ensure accurate results.

If you have type 1 diabetes, you may need to test your blood glucose four or more times per day. This includes before and after meals and exercise, and more often when you are sick.

If you have type 2 diabetes, your doctor will let you know when and how often to test your blood glucose.

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology recommends you keep fasting and premeal glucose values at 80-130 and post-prandial

However, these are general guidelines and are not for everyone. Ask your doctor about your target levels.

Regular blood glucose monitoring is an essential tool to help you take control of your diabetes. By identifying and recording changes in your blood sugar levels, you’ll have more information about how food, exercise, stress, and other factors affect your diabetes.

Diabetic coma – Symptoms & causes

Overview

A diabetic coma is a life-threatening disorder that causes unconsciousness. If you have diabetes, dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a diabetic coma.

If you go into a diabetic coma, you’re alive — but you can’t wake up or respond purposefully to sights, sounds or other types of stimulation. If it’s not treated, a diabetic coma can result in death.

The idea of a diabetic coma can be scary, but you can take steps to help prevent it. One of the most important is to follow your diabetes treatment plan.

Products & Services

Symptoms

Symptoms of high blood sugar or low blood sugar usually develop before a diabetic coma.

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)

If your blood sugar level is too high, you may have:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Tiredness or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Stomach pain
• Fruity breath odor
• A very dry mouth

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

If your blood sugar is too low, you may have:

• Shakiness
• Anxiety
• Tiredness or drowsiness
• Weakness
• Sweating
• Hunger
• A feeling of tingling on your skin
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Difficulty speaking
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

Some people, especially those who’ve had diabetes for a long time, develop a condition known as hypoglycemia unawareness. That means they don’t have warning symptoms that signal a drop in blood sugar.

If you have any symptoms of high or low blood sugar, test your blood sugar right away. Based on the test results, follow your diabetes treatment. If you don’t start to feel better quickly, or you start to feel worse, get medical care right away.

When to see a doctor

A diabetic coma is a medical emergency. If you have symptoms of high or low blood sugar and you think you might pass out, call 911 or your local emergency number.

If you’re with someone with diabetes who has passed out, call for emergency help. Tell the emergency personnel that the unconscious person has diabetes.

Causes

Blood sugar that’s either too high or too low for too long may cause the following serious health problems, all of which can lead to a diabetic coma.

• Diabetic ketoacidosis. If your muscle cells become starved for energy, your body may start breaking down fat for energy. This process forms toxic acids known as ketones. If you have ketones (measured in blood or urine) and high blood sugar, the condition is called diabetic ketoacidosis. If it’s not treated, it can lead to a diabetic coma.

  Diabetic ketoacidosis is most common in people who have type 1 diabetes. But it can also occur in people who have type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes.

• Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome. If your blood sugar level goes above 600 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 33.3 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), the condition is called diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.

  When blood sugar is very high, the extra sugar passes from the blood into the urine. That triggers a process that draws a large amount of fluid from the body. If it isn’t treated, this can lead to life-threatening dehydration and a diabetic coma.

• Hypoglycemia. Your brain needs sugar (glucose) to function. In severe cases, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may cause you to pass out. Low blood sugar can be caused by too much insulin or not enough food. Exercising too vigorously or drinking too much alcohol can have the same effect.

Risk factors

Anyone who has diabetes is at risk of a diabetic coma, but the following factors can increase the risk:

• Insulin delivery problems. If you’re using an insulin pump, you have to check your blood sugar frequently. Insulin delivery can stop if the pump fails or if the tubing (catheter) becomes twisted or falls out of place. A lack of insulin can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis.
• An illness, trauma or surgery. When you’re sick or injured, blood sugar levels can change, sometimes significantly, increasing your risk of diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome.
• Poorly managed diabetes. If you don’t monitor your blood sugar properly or take your medications as directed by your health care provider, you have a higher risk of developing long-term health problems and a higher risk of diabetic coma.
• Deliberately skipping meals or insulin. Sometimes, people with diabetes who also have an eating disorder choose not to use their insulin as they should, in the hope of losing weight. This is a dangerous, life-threatening thing to do, and it raises the risk of a diabetic coma.
• Drinking alcohol. Alcohol can have unpredictable effects on your blood sugar. Alcohol’s effects may make it harder for you to know when you’re having low blood sugar symptoms. This can increase your risk of a diabetic coma caused by hypoglycemia.
• Illegal drug use. Illegal drugs, such as cocaine, can increase your risk of severe high blood sugar and conditions linked to diabetic coma.

Complications

If it is not treated, a diabetic coma can lead to permanent brain damage and death.

Prevention

Good day-to-day control of your diabetes can help you prevent a diabetic coma. Keep these tips in mind:

• Follow your meal plan. Consistent snacks and meals can help you control your blood sugar level.
• Keep an eye on your blood sugar level. Frequent blood sugar tests can tell you whether you’re keeping your blood sugar level in your target range. It also can alert you to dangerous highs or lows. Check more frequently if you’ve exercised. Exercise can cause blood sugar levels to drop, even hours later, especially if you don’t exercise regularly.
• Take your medication as directed. If you have frequent episodes of high or low blood sugar, tell your health care provider. You may need to have the dose or the timing of your medication adjusted.
• Have a sick-day plan. Illness can cause an unexpected change in blood sugar. If you are sick and unable to eat, your blood sugar may drop. While you are healthy, talk with your doctor about how to best manage your blood sugar levels if you get sick. Consider storing at least a week’s worth of diabetes supplies and an extra glucagon kit in case of emergencies.
• Check for ketones when your blood sugar is high. Check your urine for ketones when your blood sugar level is over 250 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) (14 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)) on more than two consecutive tests, especially if you are sick. If you have a large amount of ketones, call your health care provider for advice. Call your health care provider immediately if you have any level of ketones and are vomiting. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis, which can lead to coma.
• Have glucagon and fast-acting sources of sugar available. If you take insulin for your diabetes, have an up-to-date glucagon kit and fast-acting sources of sugar, such as glucose tablets or orange juice, readily available to treat low blood sugar levels.

• Consider a continuous glucose monitor, especially if you have trouble maintaining stable blood sugar levels or you don’t feel symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia unawareness).

  Continuous glucose monitors are devices that use a small sensor inserted underneath the skin to track trends in blood sugar levels and send the information to a wireless device, such as a smart phone.

  These monitors can alert you when your blood sugar is dangerously low or if it is dropping too fast. But you still need to test your blood sugar levels using a blood glucose meter even if you’re using one of these monitors. Continuous glucose monitors are more expensive than other glucose monitoring methods, but they may help you control your glucose better.

• Drink alcohol with caution. Because alcohol can have an unpredictable effect on your blood sugar, have a snack or a meal when you drink alcohol, if you choose to drink at all.
• Educate your loved ones, friends and co-workers. Teach loved ones and other close contacts how to recognize the early symptoms of blood sugar extremes and how to give emergency injections. If you pass out, someone should be able to call for emergency help.
• Wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace. If you’re unconscious, the bracelet or necklace can provide valuable information to your friends, co-workers and emergency personnel.

Continuous glucose monitor and insulin pump

A continuous glucose monitor, on the left, is a device that measures blood sugar every few minutes using a sensor inserted under the skin. An insulin pump, attached to the pocket, is a device that’s worn outside of the body with a tube that connects the reservoir of insulin to a catheter inserted under the skin of the abdomen. Insulin pumps are programmed to deliver specific amounts of insulin continuously and with food.

Diabetes mellitus – causes, symptoms, blood sugar level

British scientists with the participation of WHO (World Health Organization) found that over the past 20 years the number of patients with diabetes mellitus has doubled. Currently, over 3 million Russians have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to doctors, about 6-9 million more do not know about their disease. Russia is in 5th place in the world in terms of incidence, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes) has become especially common in children, adolescents and young adults.

Diabetes mellitus is not in vain called the “disease of civilization” – malnutrition, low physical activity, constant stress, i.e. everything that makes up the lifestyle of a modern person are the main causes of the development of the disease.

Doctors say that it is not the disease itself that is scary, but its consequences: the target organs of diabetes mellitus are vision, kidneys, nervous system, heart, blood vessels … With early diagnosis and adequate timely treatment, it is quite possible to avoid serious consequences of the disease and maintain the habitual the quality of life of patients.

Every year November 14th is World Diabetes Day . On this day, medical workers pay great attention to informing as many people as possible about diabetes mellitus , its symptoms and consequences, and tell how to prevent the development of this disease.

It is known that today, despite the high level of development of medicine and pharmaceuticals, an effective remedy has not yet been invented that would completely cure diabetes. People diagnosed with the disease are forced to take medicines for the rest of their lives, follow the recommendations for a healthy diet, and follow other doctor’s orders. Therefore, the best way to prevent the development of the disease is its prevention. It is quite simple to do this – you just need to pay attention to the possible symptoms of diabetes in a timely manner.

Symptoms of diabetes mellitus

• Polydipsia (great thirst, dry mouth).
• Polyuria (frequent urination, including at night, an increase in the amount of urine excreted).
• Severe weakness, fatigue, decreased performance.
• Polyphagia (increased appetite).
• Weight loss.

Normal sugar – what is it?

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by hyperglycemia – an increase in blood sugar levels . What blood sugar level should be considered normal? In healthy people blood glucose levels may fluctuate: on an empty stomach – 3.3-5.5 mmol / l, after eating it can rise to 7.8 mmol / l. If such an indicator is observed in blood taken on an empty stomach, this may indicate in favor of diabetes mellitus . The content of glucose in whole blood and plasma, which is obtained after processing the blood in the laboratory, is different, also different blood sugar levels taken from a finger and from a vein – for example, the maximum allowable blood glucose level when taking blood from a vein is 6.1.

If the blood sugar level fluctuates above 5.6 and can reach up to 7.8 mmol, an additional glucose tolerance test is performed: in the morning on an empty stomach, blood is taken from the patient, then he drinks an aqueous glucose solution (75 g per 300 ml of water). Then repeated blood sampling is carried out after 2 hours.

If you have identified symptoms similar to symptoms of diabetes mellitus in yourself or your loved one, immediately contact the GUTA CLINIC endocrinologist! Early diagnosis in combination with adequate therapy will help to stabilize blood sugar levels through individual selection of hypoglycemic drugs, restore impaired blood supply to organs and tissues, and enhance glucose uptake by tissues. Yes, diabetes is incurable, but it is in your power to tame the “sweet” disease and not let it take over!

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Nutrition with high blood sugar should be given special attention

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Elevated blood sugar levels are a wake-up call, says Dr. Peter. If the numbers deviated slightly from the norm, it is worthwhile to analyze your lifestyle without delay and revise it if necessary.

– Normally, the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood from a vein on an empty stomach is up to 6.1 mmol / l, 2 hours after eating – up to 7.8 mmol / l, – endocrinologist Gulnara Belousova explained to Doctor Peter. – In diabetes mellitus, the glucose level is equal to or higher than 7.0 mmol / l, 2 hours after eating – 11.1 mmol / l and above. An increase in the blood glucose level of more than 8.0 mmol / l has a toxic effect on the pancreas, damaging the cells that produce insulin.

Gulnara Belousova — endocrinologist at the Zdravitsa Family Medicine Center in Novosibirsk.

An increase in blood sugar after meals is especially dangerous for the vessels of the heart and brain. So, with very high blood glucose levels (more than 13. 0 mmol / l), ketones (markers of carbohydrate metabolism disorders) may appear in the urine, and this condition may require hospitalization, the doctor notes.

If diabetes is detected, hypoglycemic drugs are immediately prescribed.

“Yes, maybe,” the endocrinologist assures. – In this disease, there is a violation of the production of insulin and / or a violation of the sensitivity of body cells to it.

Insulin is needed in order to pass glucose into the cell. If there is not enough of it or the cells of the body do not feel it, glucose remains in the blood. The reason is the violation of metabolic processes inside the body, and malnutrition only exacerbates the situation, accelerates the development of diabetes.

“At first, with a slight increase in blood glucose levels against the background of a diet, in some cases it is possible to achieve normalization of carbohydrate metabolism,” explains Gulnara Belousova. But, as a rule, this effect does not last for a long period. During the absence of therapy, complications will develop. The sooner treatment is started, the better the outcome. Modern hypoglycemic drugs not only effectively and safely reduce blood glucose, but also prevent the development of cardiovascular complications, prolong the life of patients.

The goal of treating diabetes is not to see the right number in the analysis, but to ensure a good quality of life without complications and increase its duration, the doctor says.

— Nutrition is part of the treatment of diabetes, — explains the endocrinologist. “We are not talking about hard limits. Severe calorie restriction and fasting are contraindicated. To begin with, you need to limit fats as much as possible (primarily of animal origin) and sweet foods. Moderately worth eating foods consisting mainly of complex carbohydrates and proteins. You should choose carbohydrates in the composition of vegetables, whole grains, dairy products.

In diabetes, the benefits of taking vitamins (in the absence of signs of beriberi), microelements, and various dietary supplements have not been proven.

“If blood sugar is slightly elevated, you can lower it without pills by observing the diet,” explained nutritionist Alexandra Lysenkova .

1. Eliminate fast carbohydrates in the form of sweets, pastries, fast food, sugary drinks, soda, sauces (ketchup).

2. Avoid side dishes such as mashed potatoes, whole grain pasta and white rice.

3. Focus on cooked, raw and pickled vegetables (1/2 plate), quality protein – fish, seafood, offal, poultry, meat – rabbit, beef, lamb, legumes (1/4 plate) and slow carbohydrates – buckwheat, wild rice, millet, quinoa, whole grains (1/4 plate).

It is important not to eat carbohydrates separately (they are digested quickly and cause blood sugar spikes). It is better to combine carbohydrates with protein foods. Protein slows down the digestion process, keeping you feeling full longer, and reduces the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream.

4. Do not forget about healthy fats in every meal – eggs, fatty fish, unrefined raw-pressed vegetable oils, raw nuts and seeds, avocados, olives.

Nuts have a balanced content of vegetable proteins, fiber and healthy fats that help to maintain normal sugar levels.

Good blood sugar combinations include eggs and whole grain toast, oatmeal and yogurt, chicken with brown rice, crackers and cheese.

5. Any kind of physical exercise lowers blood sugar levels.

— In case of diabetes, aerobic exercise lasting 30–40 minutes daily is recommended, — said endocrinologist Gulnara Belousova. – Regularity is important. Physical activity improves quality of life and helps to reduce and maintain body weight.

– Physical activity should be dosed individually for each person. The duration of light to moderate intensity activities, such as walking, swimming, cycling, should be 45-60 minutes a day at least three times a week – I’m sure and therapist of the NAKFF Medical Clinic Tatyana Nalegach . – As for the swings of the arms – such exercises are aimed at stimulating the lymphatic channel, since the lymphatic vessels do not have their own heart and valves.