What is hyperglycemia and why is it a cause for concern?
Hyperglycemia is an abnormal rise in blood glucose levels, generally above 1.10 g/L (6.1 mmol/L) on an empty stomach and 1.40 g/L (7.8 mmol/L) after a meal. It is often associated with diabetes, but can also be caused by stress, poor diet or certain medical treatments.
While occasional hyperglycemia is not necessarily a cause for concern, chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, notably affecting blood vessels, nerves and vital organs such as the heart and kidneys.
What are the symptoms of hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia may be asymptomatic at first, but when it exceeds a certain threshold, it leads to several characteristic signs:
- Intense thirst and dry mouth
- Frequent urination (the need to urinate often)
- Excessive fatigue and poor concentration
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Increased hunger despite normal diet
- Headaches and dizziness
- Unexplained weight loss in cases of prolonged hyperglycemia
- Frequent infections (cutaneous, urinary or oral)
- Slow wound healing
If these symptoms appear repeatedly, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for diabetes screening and appropriate follow-up.
What are the main causes of hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia can have several origins, linked to physiological, dietary and pathological factors:
- Type 1 or 2 diabetes: insufficient production or misuse of insulin prevents proper regulation of blood glucose levels.
- Excess of sugars and fast carbohydrates: A diet rich in refined sugars, pastries, soft drinks and ultra-processed foods can cause blood sugar spikes.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity reduces the effectiveness of insulin and favors the accumulation of sugar in the blood.
- Stress and hormones: Chronic stress releases cortisol and adrenaline, which raise blood sugar levels.
- Lack of sleep: Poor rest alters insulin regulation and increases the risk of hyperglycemia.
- Certain illnesses and treatments: Infections, inflammation, corticosteroids or certain medications can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
What are the risks and complications of prolonged hyperglycemia?
If left unchecked, chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications:
- Cardiovascular complications: Excess blood sugar promoteshypertension, atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attack.
- Neuropathy: Hyperglycemia damages nerves, leading to pain, tingling and numbness in the limbs.
- Kidney damage: long-term high blood sugar levels can lead to kidney failure.
- Diabetic retinopathy: Damage to blood vessels in the eye can lead to progressive loss of vision.
- Diabetic foot: Poor blood circulation combined with nerve damage can cause wounds that are difficult to heal, leading to amputation in the most severe cases.
Regular medical check-ups and strict control of blood sugar levels are essential to avoid these complications.
How can I lower my blood sugar naturally?
It is possible to regulate blood sugar levels through changes indiet and lifestyle:
- Adopt a low-glycemic index (GI) diet: focus on vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and lean proteins.
- Avoid fast and refined sugars: Limit sugary drinks, pastries, white bread and fast food, which cause blood sugar spikes.
- Regular physical activity: Walking, swimming and weight training improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.
- Manage stress: Relaxation techniques, meditation and yoga help reduce the effects of cortisol.
- Sleep well: Quality sleep helps regulate the hormones involved in blood sugar management.
- Drink enough water: Good hydration helps the kidneys to eliminate excess sugar.
Which foods are best for stabilizing blood sugar levels?
Certain food categories are particularly effective in regulating blood sugar levels:
- Soluble fiber: Found in green vegetables, oats, apples and flaxseed, it slows the absorption of carbohydrates.
- Lean proteins: White meats, fish, eggs and legumes contribute to a stable metabolism.
- Healthy fatty acids: Omega-3s found in oily fish, chia seeds and olive oil help control inflammation.
- Spices and herbs: Cinnamon, turmeric, ginger and fenugreek improve insulin sensitivity.
A balanced and varied diet, combined with a healthy lifestyle, is the key to maintaining stable blood sugar levels and preventing the complications associated with hyperglycemia.
What medical treatments are available to manage hyperglycemia?
If hyperglycemia is occasional and moderate, lifestyle adjustments may suffice. In the case of established diabetes, however, medical follow-up and appropriate treatment are necessary:
- Type 1 diabetes: treatment with insulin, essential for regulating blood sugar levels.
- Type 2 diabetes: Treatment with oral antidiabetics (metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1) and, in some cases, insulin.
- Blood glucose monitoring: Regular self-monitoring with a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor.
Regular medical follow-up is crucial to adapt treatment, prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Why is it important to act quickly in the event of persistent hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia may seem harmless at first, but it can quickly develop into serious complications if left untreated. Early intervention can help to:
- Prevent chronic complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy and kidney failure.
- Prevent the onset of diabetes in cases of pre-diabetes.
- Improve quality of life by reducing uncomfortable symptoms and stabilizing daily energy levels.
A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular monitoring are the best ways to control blood sugar levels and preserve long-term health.
