A healthy blood sugar reading is critical for one’s general wellness, especially if one has diabetes. “Too little or too much blood sugar can be harmful to our health,” says Dr. Tomi Mitchell. “It can lead to diabetes when blood sugar levels spike. However, if blood sugar levels have dropped too low (as in hypoglycemia), dizziness, perplexity, and even unconsciousness are possible. That is why maintaining proper blood sugar levels by consuming a balanced diet and exercising on a regular basis is so important,” she adds. The Mayo Clinic says that “a blood sugar level of 140 mg/dL or less is considered normal. A reading above 200 mg/dL after 2 hours indicates that you have diabetes. A blood sugar reading between 140 to 199 mg/dL suggests prediabetes.”
1 — You Feel Tired Most of the Time, Even After a Good Night’s Sleep
“I’m tired all the time, even after a decent night’s sleep,” is a common complaint that Dr. Mitchell has heard from patients. While there are a lot of possible causes of tiredness, one that is frequently neglected is diabetes. Because the body has to work harder to break down sugar as blood sugar levels elevate, people become weary. Furthermore, high blood glucose levels can lead to dehydration, which makes you feel tired. If you’re feeling sluggish and have other signs of diabetes, such as excessive urination or thirst, it’s critical that you speak with your doctor about a blood sugar test. It’s possible to reduce the risk of severe problems by detecting diabetes early on.
2 — You Have a Hard Time Concentrating or Focusing on Tasks
“When you have trouble concentrating or focusing on things, it might be an indication that your blood sugar levels need to be checked. High blood sugar can damage the small arteries that deliver nutrients and oxygen to the brain. This damage may lead to issues with speaking, thinking, and learning. In addition, if your blood sugar levels are high it can cause irritability and mood swings. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, it is critical that you visit your physician for a blood sugar checkup. Checking your blood sugars is an important part of keeping your health in good shape,” says Dr. Mitchell.
3 — You Crave Sugary Foods or Sweets More Than Usual
When your blood sugar levels are low, you might feel an intense desire for sugary foods, according to Dr. Mitchell. “Sugar gives the body a quick burst of energy,” he explains. “However, if you are craving sweets more frequently than usual, it’s possible that your blood sugar levels are out of balance. This can lead to severe health problems like diabetes if left unchecked.”