Did you know that blood sugar can have a significant impact on our moods? Have you noticed how we instantly feel better after eating chocolate or how grumpy we become when we are hungry? If you’re feeling angry, irritable, depressed or anxious more than usual, it could be linked to your blood sugar levels. Food is the fastest source to bring your blood sugar levels to normal. Inadequate glycemic control causes mental health symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and worry. Blood sugar imbalances can also contribute to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Anxiety is common in people with diabetes. Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) can easily be diagnosed as panic attacks.
Low blood sugar can make you feel
- Anxious
- Nervous
- Overwhelmed
- Panicking
- Scared
- Tired
High blood sugar can make you
- Irritable and cranky
- Feeling tired and unwell
- Difficulty concentrating
Diabetes Screening Tests
There are various types of screening tests available to diagnose or monitor diabetes.
Continuous Ambulatory Glucose Monitor – This involves inserting a tiny sensor under the skin. The sensor continuously monitors blood sugar levels, and a transmitter wirelessly sends the information to a monitor providing real-time data on blood sugar.
Glucose – RBS
The most common test used to confirm diabetes involves collecting a blood sample at any time of the day, regardless of the patient’s meal schedule. The sample is then analyzed to determine the current blood sugar levels.
Glucose Fasting
Fasting overnight for upto 8 hours is required for this test. When the blood sugar is higher than 26 mg/dL, it indicates diabetes.
Glucose Challenge & Glucose Tolerance Test for Diabetes
These tests are used to check for gestational diabetes during pregnancy. A tolerance test requires the patient to drink a sugary solution, and an hour later, they test the blood sugar level. If the blood sugar surpasses a specific level, they administer the Glucose Challenge Test, which involves further measurement of blood sugar.
Urine Glucose
A urine glucose test is a part of urinalysis which analyzes the urine for glucose levels. However, it’s important to note that urine glucose testing is not as accurate as blood glucose testing to diagnose diabetes.
Spot Glucose
Spot glucose test involves taking blood samples at various intervals of the same day to assess fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Measures to keep your blood sugar in control
Knowing how to manage your blood sugar level is crucial in diabetes management. Some important lifestyle changes are essential for diabetic patients.
Exercise regularly – Engaging in physical activity improves insulin sensibility and allows glucose to be utilized for the body’s energy. Regular exercise can also help with weight management.
Healthy eating – Counting your carbs is the key to diabetes management since carbs have a direct impact on blood sugar. Eating a well-balanced diet comprising of starches, fruits and vegetables, proteins, and fats.
Portion Control – It’s not just the type of food but also the amount of food consumed that contributes to an imbalance in blood sugar.
Monitoring blood sugar levels – Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly by using a glucose meter or taking blood tests at labs provides valuable information about your blood sugar levels. This will make one make more informed decisions about diabetes management.
Stress management: Stress can impact your blood sugar levels, therefore it’s essential to find ways to de-stress and detox. Engage in activities that will help you relax and unwind such as breathing exercises, yoga, etc.
By following these measures, individuals with diabetes can manage and regulate their blood sugar levels which in turn has a positive effect on mental health and overall well-being.
