Diabetes is a growing health challenge in many African countries, including Nigeria, and it’s responsible for millions of deaths around the world. While sugar is an important source of energy for the body, too much of it can become dangerous—leading to high blood sugar levels and, eventually, diabetes.
This article will help you understand what happens when blood sugar is too high, and how to recognize early warning signs before things get worse.
Understanding Blood Sugar
Glucose, or sugar, is the body’s main source of energy. We get it from the food we eat, and it helps fuel everything we do—from walking and thinking to breathing and sleeping.
But when there’s too much glucose in the blood, it becomes a problem. The hormone called insulin is what helps manage sugar levels in the body. When your body doesn’t make enough insulin—or can’t use it properly—your blood sugar rises. This is what leads to diabetes, either type 1 or type 2.
It’s important to know that eating sugar alone doesn’t directly cause diabetes. The real issue is how the body processes it. However, poor eating habits and consuming too many sugary foods over time can push your body into a state where it no longer handles sugar well.
How Your Diet Affects Blood Sugar
Even though sugar isn’t the only cause of diabetes, your food choices play a big role. Eating too much sugar or carbohydrate-rich foods forces your body to work harder to control glucose levels. When this happens consistently, it can lead to insulin resistance or failure.
That’s why it’s important to limit sugary drinks, snacks, and fast food—especially after age 40 or if diabetes runs in your family.
Warning Signs Your Sugar Might Be Too High
Knowing the symptoms of high blood sugar can help you seek help early and take steps to manage it. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
1. Feeling Tired All the Time
If you feel unusually tired, especially after a heavy meal with lots of sugar or carbs, your blood sugar could be to blame. Constant fatigue is one of the earliest signs that your glucose levels may be too high.
2. Urinating More Often Than Usual
When there’s extra sugar in your blood, your body tries to flush it out through urine. If you’re going to the bathroom more often than usual—especially at night—it might be a sign of high blood sugar.
3. Frequent Headaches
Regular headaches without a clear cause can sometimes be linked to blood sugar swings—either high or low. It’s a good idea to talk to a doctor if this is happening often.
4. Blurred Vision
High sugar levels can affect your eyesight. If your vision suddenly becomes blurry or fuzzy, it could be a sign that your blood sugar is too high and is starting to affect your eyes.
5. Mouth and Dental Problems
Too much sugar doesn’t just affect your energy levels—it also affects your mouth. Swollen gums, frequent toothaches, cavities, or bleeding when brushing your teeth can all be warning signs. High glucose levels create a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
6. Slow-Healing Wounds and Joint Pain
If cuts or injuries take longer than usual to heal, or if you’re experiencing unexplained joint aches or stiffness, these can also signal elevated blood sugar.
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