Five Hacks for Improving Blood Sugar Sensitivity from a Functional Medicine Perspective

Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Prediabetes, Insulin Resistance, and Diabetes Type 3 (Alzheimer’s Disease potentially linked to Glucotoxicity) have been increasing in the Western World and large countries like China and India over the last two decades.

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Studies from the CDC show that over 100 million Americans have DM or prediabetes mellitus. In China, prediabetes affects 38.1% of the population, and diabetes mellitus affects over 12.4%. Prediabetes in India is estimated to be up to 14%.

Diabetes Mellitus is defined as having a fasting blood sugar of at least 126 on two separate occasions or having a HgA1C of at least 6.5.

Prediabetes is defined as having a fasting blood sugar of 100 -125 or a HgA1C of 5.7 - 6.4. But a recently published study involving a large number of patients showed that diabetic risk may increase approximately 6% for every fasting blood sugar (FBS) point that goes above 84. Based on these numbers, many patients may not know that they have prediabetes and could be at increased health risks.

Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with blood sugar dysregulation.

Signs & Symptoms of Blood Sugar Sensitivity

• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Drowsiness in the early afternoon
• Feeling very thirsty
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Loss of muscle mass
• Frequent urination
  

Possible Causes of Blood Sugar Sensitivity

• Obesity, especially abdominal fat
• Inactive lifestyle
• High carbohydrate diet
• Gestational Diabetes
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Family history of Diabetes
• Smoking
  

Functional Labs to Test for Blood Sugar Sensitivity

• Fasting Insulin
• Fasting Blood Sugar
• 75 Gram 3-hour Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
• Heavy Metals
• Mycotoxins
• Oxidative Stress
• Mitochondria Health
• Hormonal Health
• Lymphocyte Populations

Five Tips for Supporting Blood Sugar Sensitivity

1. Consider decreasing your intake of Linoleic Acid. While some linoleic acid is beneficial, consuming it in moderation may help support healthy insulin function. High levels of linoleic acid are commonly found in conventionally farmed pork or poultry products.
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2. Explore intermittent fasting. Some authors suggest that intermittent fasting may support blood sugar sensitivity. Consult your doctor before starting any fasting routine, especially if you are on prescription medications.
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3. Aim for proper, restful sleep of 7-9 hours nightly. Adequate sleep is important for overall health and well-being.
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4. Try to wait at least 3 hours after eating before going to sleep. This practice may support various health functions, including insulin sensitivity.
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5. Consider EWOT (Exercise with Oxygen Therapy). This activity may support insulin sensitivity and overall health. Consult with a healthcare provider to see if this is suitable for you.
   

Summary

Many people may have prediabetes without noticeable symptoms. Early awareness and consultation with a healthcare provider can be important for managing health. Working with a healthcare professional and considering lifestyle adjustments may help support overall well-being.