The term ‘blood sugar’ refers to glucose. It is a simple sugar that is produced by the body from carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Blood sugar is essential for normal functioning of the body and its cells. The blood sugar level is regulated by the pancreas and the liver. When the level rises above the normal level, it is referred to as hyperglycemia. When the level falls below the normal level, it is known as hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia occurs when there is an insufficient amount of insulin in the body. Insulin is a hormone that helps control the blood sugar level. This deficiency of insulin can be due to a decrease in the amount of insulin that is produced by the pancreas or due to the failure of the pancreas to produce insulin. Hypoglycemia can also occur if there is a blockage in the blood vessels supplying the pancreas with insulin.
In most cases, hypoglycemia occurs when the body is unable to use glucose efficiently. The brain and other organs need glucose for their energy requirements. Glucose is converted into energy by the brain and other organs. However, the conversion of glucose into energy takes place at a slower rate than the production of glucose by the body. When the level of glucose drops too low, the body cannot meet the energy requirements of the brain and other organs. This leads to a reduction in the supply of glucose to these organs. This condition is known as hypoglycemias.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to convert glucose into energy. Diabetes causes high levels of glucose in the blood. This increase in glucose levels results in excessive urination, increased thirst, increased hunger, weight loss, tiredness and other symptoms. The most common cause of diabetes is obesity. The risk factors associated with diabetes include family history of diabetes, physical inactivity, being overweight, consuming foods rich in saturated fats and sugars, consuming alcohol and smoking.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin is released by the beta cells of the pancreas in response to a rise in blood glucose levels. Insulin helps in the transportation of glucose from the blood into the cells. Insulin also helps to regulate the blood sugar level. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin at all. In type 2 diabetes, the body produces insulin but it is ineffective. The blood sugar level is very high in type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, blood sugar level is moderately high.
Hyperglycemia occurs when the blood sugar level is higher than normal. Hyperglycemia is more common in people who have type 2 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes the body produces insulin but it does not work effectively. People suffering from type 2 diabetes need to take insulin to control their blood sugar level. Insulin is used in combination with diet and exercise to control the blood sugar level.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce any insulin. In type 1 diabetes, blood sugar levels are very high. Type 1 diabetes can be prevented by taking precautions such as avoiding foods that are high in calories, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. Type 1 diabetes is treated by injecting insulin through the skin.
Hyperglycemias can lead to various complications such as kidney damage, blindness, heart attacks, strokes and nervous system disorders. These complications can be avoided by controlling the blood sugar level.
