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Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates that 63% of Americans have less-than-optimal blood sugar health—up from about 40% of Americans in 2010. This rapidly worsening trend spells bad news for our general metabolic health, a measure of a person’s risk factor for chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
“Our cells depend on this sugar source as their main energy source for bodily processes,” explains Laura Purdy, MD, MBA, a family medicine physician licensed in all 50 states. But it’s a delicate balance. Too much sugar can overwork your body’s systems, resulting in cell, nerve, and organ damage. Too little sugar, and your body can’t power its normal functions. In both cases, unmanaged blood sugar puts your physiology under serious stress—and if that stress sustains, it can contribute to the development of chronic disease over time.
That’s why doctors say it’s important to recognize the signs of high blood sugar or low blood sugar—and if you experience persistent symptoms, to check in with your doctor for a personalized evaluation. “Regular monitoring, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications can all play a part in maintaining stable levels, supporting your overall health and well-being,” Dr. Purdy says. What works best for you can depend on your body’s needs.
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