Tyler Woodward | August 3, 2023
Tips For Supporting Blood Sugar Balance
Do you struggle with mood swings, shakiness, or post-meal fatigue? Your blood sugar may be to blame! Let’s dive into how to support blood sugar balance.
Contents:
How Your Blood Sugar Works
Understanding Blood Sugar and Energy Sources
Blood sugar, or blood glucose, refers to the amount of glucose circulating in your bloodstream. Glucose is a primary energy source for your body’s cells, fueling various functions from cellular processes to movement and conversation. Cells absorb glucose, converting it into ATP, water, and CO₂ to produce energy. When blood sugar levels drop, the body begins to access alternative energy sources.
Energy Sources When Blood Sugar Levels Are Low
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Glycogen Stores
The body first taps into glycogen stores—stored glucose in the liver. In most adults, the liver holds about 100–120 grams of glycogen, equating to approximately 800–880 calories (kcal). When blood glucose levels decrease, the hormone glucagon signals the body to start breaking down glycogen. -
Fat Stores
As glycogen becomes less available, adrenaline signals the body to access fat stores, shifting from primarily burning glucose to using fat for energy. -
Protein
If energy demands continue, cortisol helps facilitate the breakdown of amino acids from protein, which can be converted into glucose through a process known as gluconeogenesis.
Throughout this process, a hormone called ghrelin is gradually released, often referred to as the "hunger hormone" because of its role in signaling hunger. When ghrelin levels increase and food is consumed, blood glucose rises, and insulin is released to help maintain balanced blood sugar levels, signaling cells to absorb glucose for immediate energy or storage.
Tips for Supporting Balanced Blood Sugar Levels:
1. Include Protein, Carbs & Fat in Meals
A helpful strategy for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is to enjoy meals that provide a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. This combination may help keep energy steady for hours without causing extreme highs or lows. While people often focus on sugar alone for blood sugar balance, including protein and fat can also contribute to a more balanced effect.
Protein, for instance, can stimulate insulin release, so pairing it with carbs may help support steady energy. Including fat in meals can slow absorption, potentially helping to avoid sharp blood sugar spikes.
Adding fiber can also be beneficial, as it may support slower digestion and help keep blood sugar levels more consistent after meals.
Combining protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber may help you feel satisfied and energized after meals without the dips that sometimes follow.
2. Choose Balanced Snacks
When blood sugar levels begin to drop, having balanced snacks on hand can help. Snacks that combine carbs, protein, and fat—such as gelatin gummies, an adrenal cocktail, or even juice—may provide energy and support stable blood sugar levels.
3. Ensure Adequate Potassium Intake
Potassium is an important mineral that plays various roles in supporting overall health. It is also associated with energy support and may help maintain balanced nutrition. Including potassium-rich foods in your diet, like fruits and vegetables, can contribute to your overall wellness.
If you would like natural herbal support to help normalize blood sugar levels Sensolin can be a valuable aid. Sensolin helps restore normal blood sugar regulation using natural herbs shown in research to support the body to handle blood sugar swings naturally.