High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. This condition can develop over several hours or days and may not present with noticeable symptoms initially. It is a key characteristic of diabetes and one of the “three highs”—along with high blood pressure and high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)—that are major public health concerns.

Defining Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar levels are a crucial indicator of metabolic health. Here’s a general guide to interpreting the numbers:

A fasting blood sugar level above 130 mg/dL is generally considered hyperglycemia. If blood sugar exceeds 160–180 mg/dL, the kidneys may be unable to reabsorb all the glucose, leading to sugar being excreted in the urine (glucosuria). Conversely, hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is defined as a blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL.

Normally, the body meticulously balances blood sugar through hormonal and nervous system regulation. However, a combination of genetic predisposition (like a family history of diabetes) and environmental factors (such as an unhealthy diet and obesity) can disrupt this balance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

The Telltale Signs of High Blood Sugar

The classic symptoms of hyperglycemia, often referred to as the “three polys and one less,” are directly linked to the body’s efforts to manage excess glucose:

• Polyuria (Frequent Urination): High blood sugar leads to glucose spilling into the urine. This excess sugar draws more water with it, causing increased urine production.[1][2]

• Polydipsia (Increased Thirst): The frequent urination results in significant fluid loss, leading to dehydration and a persistent feeling of thirst.[1][2][3]

• Polyphagia (Increased Hunger): Even with high levels of glucose in the blood, a lack of insulin or insulin resistance means that the body’s cells cannot effectively use this glucose for energy. This cellular starvation triggers constant hunger signals.[1][3][4]

• Unexplained Weight Loss: Since the body cannot use glucose for fuel, it begins to break down muscle and fat for energy, leading to weight loss despite increased food intake.[1][2]

Other symptoms can include fatigue, blurred vision, dry skin, nausea, and a fruity odor on the breath, which can be a sign of a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. It’s important to note that many individuals with type 2 diabetes may not experience these classic symptoms for a long time, leading to delayed diagnosis.

What Causes High Blood Sugar?

Several factors can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels:

• Dietary Habits: Consuming excessive amounts of sugary foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugary drinks can lead to spikes in blood sugar.

• Sedentary Lifestyle: A lack of physical activity can contribute to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar.

• Obesity: Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is a major risk factor for insulin resistance.

• Medications: Certain drugs, including corticosteroids like prednisone and some diuretics, can raise blood sugar levels.

• Illness and Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger the release of hormones that elevate blood sugar.

• The Somogyi Effect: This phenomenon, also known as rebound hyperglycemia, is a response to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) during the night. The body releases hormones to counteract the low, which can lead to high blood sugar levels in the morning.[1][3] This can be caused by too much insulin before bed or not eating a sufficient bedtime snack.[1]

• Alcohol: While it can cause low blood sugar, alcohol can also lead to delayed hyperglycemia.

The Dangers of Uncontrolled High Blood Sugar

While a single, brief episode of high blood sugar is not typically harmful, chronic hyperglycemia can lead to serious health complications over time:

• Cardiovascular Disease: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. The link between high blood sugar and high blood lipids (hyperlipidemia) is particularly dangerous, as both contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis).[5][6][7]

• Nerve Damage (Neuropathy): This can cause tingling, numbness, burning, or pain, usually starting in the hands and feet.

• Kidney Damage (Nephropathy): High blood sugar can damage the delicate filtering units in the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure.

• Eye Damage (Retinopathy): This can affect the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and even blindness.

• Weakened Immune System: Hyperglycemia can impair the body’s ability to fight off infections.

A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on High Blood Sugar

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the symptoms of high blood sugar are often associated with a condition called “Xiao Ke” (wasting and thirsting disease). TCM views this as a result of an imbalance of Yin and Yang in the body, often stemming from:

• Improper Diet: Excessive consumption of sweet and greasy foods.[8]

• Emotional Disturbances: Stress, anxiety, and other strong emotions can disrupt the flow of Qi and blood.[8]

• Constitutional Yin Deficiency: An inherent lack of the body’s cooling and moistening energies.[8]

A key concept in the TCM understanding of metabolic issues like high blood sugar is Spleen Qi Deficiency. The Spleen in TCM is responsible for digestion and transforming food into energy (Qi) and nutrients.[9] A weak Spleen can lead to the accumulation of “dampness” and “phlegm,” which can obstruct the proper functioning of other organs and contribute to metabolic disorders.[7] Therefore, many TCM treatments for diabetes focus on strengthening the Spleen.[6][10]

Managing High Blood Sugar: A Holistic Approach

Managing high blood sugar requires a multifaceted approach that includes diet, exercise, and, in many cases, medication.

Dietary Strategies for Blood Sugar Control

A healthy diet is fundamental to managing blood sugar. The focus should be on nutrient-dense, whole foods that are digested slowly.

Foods to Include:

• High-Fiber Foods: Whole grains, legumes (beans and lentils), and non-starchy vegetables help slow down the absorption of sugar.[11][12][13]

• Lean Protein: Including protein with meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels.[11]

• Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, and avocados can also help manage blood sugar.[11]

• Specific Beneficial Foods:

  • Bitter Melon, Onions, Pumpkin, and Purple Cabbage: These have been noted for their potential to help lower blood sugar.

  • Water Spinach: Rich in antioxidants and fiber, some studies suggest it may help lower glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.[12][14]

• TCM-Recommended Herbs and Foods:

  • Sanqi (Panax notoginseng): Some research suggests it may play a role in supporting blood sugar levels.[5][15]

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

• Sugary Foods and Drinks: Candy, soda, fruit juice, and sweetened beverages cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.[14][16]

• Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, white rice, and pasta made with white flour are quickly broken down into sugar.[13][16]

• Saturated and Trans Fats: Found in fatty meats, fried foods, and many processed snacks.

• Foods of Special Note:

  • Lychee: While it contains beneficial nutrients, it is also high in natural sugar and should be consumed in moderation by individuals with diabetes.[4][17]

  • Alcohol: Should be consumed in moderation, if at all, as it can have unpredictable effects on blood sugar.

The Role of Exercise in Blood Sugar Management

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for controlling high blood sugar. Exercise:

• Increases Insulin Sensitivity: This allows the body’s cells to use insulin more effectively to absorb glucose from the blood.[9][18]

• Promotes Glucose Uptake: Contracting muscles can take up glucose for energy even without insulin.[9]

• Aids in Weight Management: Helps reduce body fat, which can improve insulin sensitivity.[19]

• Improves Cardiovascular Health: Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation.[18]

A combination of aerobic exercise (like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling) and resistance training is generally recommended for optimal blood sugar control.

Handling Blood Sugar Emergencies

It’s crucial to know how to respond to both high and low blood sugar emergencies.

• High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia): If a person with known diabetes is very thirsty, has dry skin and mouth, and their breath has a sweet, fruity odor, they may be experiencing severe hyperglycemia. In such cases, it is important not to give them sugar. Ensure their airway is clear and seek emergency medical help immediately.

• Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): If someone is experiencing symptoms of low blood sugar (shakiness, sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat) and is conscious, the “15-15 rule” is recommended:

  1. Consume 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate, such as fruit juice, regular soda, or glucose tablets.[2][20]

  2. Wait 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar levels.

  3. If still low, repeat the process.[2][20]
     Once blood sugar has returned to a safe range, a small snack containing protein and carbohydrates can help prevent it from dropping again.[2][20]

If a person is unconscious or unable to swallow due to severe hypoglycemia, do not attempt to give them food or drink.[20] They may require an emergency glucagon injection, and you should call for immediate medical assistance.