Blood Sugar Levels Explained ✅ | unswt

Maintaining normal blood sugar levels is essential for overall health. In this blog, we will break down what normal blood sugar levels are, why they are important, and how you can keep them within a healthy range.

What Are Normal Blood Sugar Levels?

🙋🏻‍♂️What are normal blood sugar levels, and how are they determined?

Blood sugar refers to the concentration of glucose in your bloodstream. Fasting blood sugar is measured after not eating for at least 8 hours, usually in the morning. The normal range for fasting blood sugar is 70-100 mg/dL. Post-meal blood sugar is measured 2 hours after eating, and the normal range is below 140 mg/dL.

Why Maintaining Normal Blood Sugar Levels Matters

Keeping your blood sugar within the normal range is crucial for several reasons. If blood sugar drops too low, you can experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as dizziness or even fainting. On the other hand, high blood sugar levels can lead to diabetes and complications like cardiovascular disease and kidney problems.

How to Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is key to stable blood sugar levels. Make sure to include a healthy mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and opt for complex carbs over refined sugars.

🍎 Tip: Choose whole grain bread or brown rice instead of sugary drinks or refined carbs.

Regular Exercise

Exercise can help lower your blood sugar levels. It is recommended to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.

💪 Tip: Try brisk walking, cycling, or swimming for 30 minutes a day.

Stress Management

Stress can elevate blood sugar levels. Practices such as meditation and yoga can help manage stress.

🌱 Tip: Spend 10 minutes a day meditating to calm your mind and reduce stress.

Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring

For those at higher risk of diabetes, regularly checking your blood sugar is important. With Unswt, all you need to do is snap a photo of your meal, and our AI model will predict how that food will affect your blood sugar levels. You’ll receive personalized meal coaching based on these predictions, helping you make informed food choices and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Visit Unswt to discover how our smart tools can support your health goals!

🔗References

• American Diabetes Association: Glycemic Index and Diabetes
  https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/31/12/2281/24911/International-Tables-of-Glycemic-Index-and
• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Carbohydrates and Blood Sugar
  https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/carbohydrates/carbohydrates-and-blood-sugar/
• Mayo Clinic: Blood Sugar Management Tips for Diabetics
  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-management/art-20047963

🙋🏻 Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What should I do if my blood sugar levels fall outside the normal range?
If your blood sugar levels are outside the normal range, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Depending on your situation, they may recommend lifestyle changes or medication.

Q2: How can I quickly lower my blood sugar?
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, good sleep, and stress management can help lower blood sugar levels. Choose complex carbs and avoid refined sugars.

Q3: How often should I check my blood sugar?
Diabetics may need to check their blood sugar multiple times a day, as directed by their doctor. Typically, fasting blood sugar and post-meal blood sugar should be checked regularly.

Q4: What foods raise blood sugar levels quickly?
Foods high in refined carbohydrates and sugars, like white bread, sugary drinks, cookies, and cakes, tend to cause a sharp rise in blood sugar.

Q5: How do I use a blood glucose monitor?
After cleaning your finger, use a lancet to prick it and place a drop of blood on a test strip. The monitor will display your blood sugar levels. For continuous monitoring, CGMs can track blood sugar levels for up to 14 days without finger pricks.