Understanding Blood Sugar: The Silent Threat of Diabetes and Prediabetes
Blood sugar is one of the body's primary energy sources, deriving from the foods we consume. According to Medline Plus, the body breaks down most of that food into glucose, releasing it into the bloodstream. When glucose levels rise, the pancreas releases insulin to help transport that glucose into cells for energy use. However, if the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, diabetes is diagnosed, which comes in various forms.
To gauge whether an individual's blood sugar levels are normal, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that a standard range for fasting blood sugar—after at least eight hours since the last meal—lies between 70 and 100 mg/dL. Levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicate impaired fasting glucose, while 126 mg/dL or higher confirms a diabetes diagnosis, which must be verified by a doctor.
In relation to diabetes management, Medline Plus emphasizes the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels. For those diagnosed with diabetes, the aim is to achieve glycemic targets of 80 to 130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after starting a meal. However, it is crucial to note that these targets may vary based on factors such as age and additional health conditions.
Beyond diagnosed diabetes, there is a condition known as prediabetes, which significantly increases the risk of developing both diabetes and other health issues. The MSD Manuals define prediabetes as occurring when fasting blood sugar falls between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL or when blood sugar readings taken two hours after a glucose tolerance test range between 140 mg/dL and 199 mg/dL (or 110 mmol/L). Individuals with prediabetes are at a heightened risk of diabetes mellitus and heart diseases.
It is critical to emphasize that diabetes often remains asymptomatic, with diagnosis requiring medical confirmation. As highlighted by Franz Martín Bermudo, a researcher and professor of Nutrition and Food Science, diabetes doesn't present clear symptoms in many cases. In fact, some individuals may only discover their condition after suffering significant medical events such as a stroke, angina, or heart attack, having unknowingly lived with diabetes for years.
The absence of overt symptoms leads experts to classify diabetes as a silent killer, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and awareness, especially for those in higher-risk categories. Being informed about blood sugar levels and understanding the implications of both diabetes and prediabetes can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better health and potentially prevent serious complications.
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