Understanding blood sugar
Blood sugar, also called blood glucose, is essential for your body’s function. It’s the primary fuel for your cells, providing the energy you need for your daily activities. Your body regulates blood sugar levels with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Simply put, your pancreas releases insulin to ensure there’s enough to transport glucose into your cells.
However, if this process is disrupted (for example, if the cells are insulin resistant and cannot1. Constant thirst
When your blood sugar levels are high, your kidneys work overtime to filter and absorb the excess sugar. This can lead to dehydration, causing you to feel constantly thirsty.
2. Frequent urination
This is another sign of high blood sugar. It might not seem so bad at first, but it could be one of the more dangerous signs that your blood sugar is too high. When glucose remains in the body for an extended period, it can draw water from almost any organ, causing it to shrink slightly.
Water loss leads to dryness throughout the body, including the bladder, causing you to urinate more frequently than usual. You may need to urinate up to 20 times a day, even when your body doesn’t need water. This is especially true for people with kidney problems already compromised by diabetes.
Adequate fluid intake is an important part of maintaining healthy blood sugar levels throughout the body. Therefore, make sure you drink enough fluids every day.
3. Extreme hunger
While increased hunger might seem like a sign of low blood sugar, it can also indicate high blood sugar levels and complications with glucose transport into cells for use. If the body can’t effectively utilize the glucose in the blood, it signals to the brain that more food is needed, making you feel hungrier than usual.
4. Fatigue and weakness
When there is an excess of glucose in the body, the kidneys have to work harder, leading to fatigue and exhaustion. Drowsiness and lightheadedness can also result.
