How To Test Your Blood Sugar [51d1a3]

Understanding Metformin's Role in Blood Sugar Management: What You Need to Know

Blood sugar levels play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. When blood sugar levels become too high, it can lead to various complications, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The ideal blood sugar range varies depending on several factors such as age, weight, and physical activity level.

What Blood Sugar Levels Trigger the Need for Metformin?

Typically, if your fasting glucose levels exceed 126 mg/dL or random glucose levels reach 200 mg/dL or higher after consuming a meal, you may require medication to control blood sugar. One such medication is metformin, commonly prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes.

The Science Behind Blood Sugar Regulation and Metformin

Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity. This allows more glucose to enter cells from the bloodstream, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance occurs when the body becomes less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

How Diet and Exercise Impact Blood Sugar Regulation

Diet plays a significant role in regulating blood sugar levels. Consuming high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help slow down glucose absorption into the bloodstream. Regular physical activity blood sugar factors also improves insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to use more glucose from the bloodstream.

Managing Stress for Better Blood Sugar Control

Stress affects blood sugar regulation by releasing stress hormones like cortisol. Elevated levels of cortisol disrupt insulin function, leading to increased blood sugar production in the liver and decreased glucose uptake in cells. Engaging in relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help what to do when you get low blood sugar alleviate chronic stress.

Monitoring Your does pretzels raise blood sugar Progress: Why Tracking Blood Sugar Matters

Regularly monitoring your fasting and post-meal glucose levels helps you identify patterns that may indicate a need for medication like metformin. A blood sugar log also tracks fluctuations due to lifestyle factors, allowing adjustments to diet and exercise routines for optimal results.

This video has been developed by the Banting and Best Diabetes Center, University of Toronto and the Endocrine Clinic health care team at Toronto General Hospital. This video is part of series of diabetes self-management resources. This video will help you learn to: 1. Prepare to test your blood sugar 2. Lance your finger and draw blood for testing 3. Use your blood sugar meter This video has been developed by the Banting and Best Diabetes Center, University of Toronto and the Endocrine Clinic health care team at Toronto General Hospital. This video is part of series of diabetes self-management resources. This video will help you learn to: 1. Prepare to test your blood sugar 2. Lance your finger and draw blood for testing 3. Use your blood sugar meter The information within this video is not intended to replace any advice provided to you by your health care team. For your safety, we ask that you do not act on the information within these videos without first discussing your treatment or healthy living plan with your qualified health care providers. For more information about UHN Patient & Family Education, visit