Elevated blood sugar is a significant problem that has been affecting more and more people in recent years. And it is not only a complication for diabetics. In fact, large amounts of sugar can damage the body in the long term, but very subtly. Nevertheless, warning signs can be spotted in time.

Excess glucose in the body can affect virtually all organs. So it is definitely not advisable to underestimate even the most subtle signals. The body stores sugar when it is unable to use it efficiently. Its accumulation disrupts the internal environment.

Why is elevated sugar in the body a problem?

When the body has more sugar than it can use, it stores excess sugar, leading to damage to nerves, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and the heart. High sugar levels (hyperglycemia) also reduce the body’s ability to heal wounds.

In turn, the risk of infection increases. In addition, the problem also affects the development of type 2 diabetes. If sugar is elevated for a long time, it can significantly shorten your life expectancy. This is even if you have no officially diagnosed complication.

The most common problems associated with excess sugar in the body include diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, kidney damage, cardiovascular disease and immune disorders.

It does not occur overnight

Elevated body sugar is not a problem that occurs in a short period of time just because you overindulged in sweets. It arises over a long period of time and there are several factors that affect it.

First and foremost, of course, is an inappropriate diet. If you consume sweets, sugary drinks and white pastries full of so-called fast carbohydrates, there are sharp fluctuations in blood sugar. If the body has to react to this repeatedly, the risk of insulin resistance increases.

Genetics also play a role in the development of problems associated with excess sugar in the body. If someone in the family has diabetes, it increases the likelihood that the body will be prone to poor glucose processing.

In addition, overweight and obesity, low physical activity and therefore reduced tissue sensitivity to insulin, as well as stress and poor sleep are risk factors. These increase cortisol levels, which promote glucose production and impair metabolism.

Symptoms of hyperglycaemia

You can tell early on that your body is struggling with elevated blood sugar by subtle but fairly clear signals. These include constant thirst and frequent urination. The body tries to expel the excess sugar through the kidneys, but this leads to dehydration.

Other symptoms of the problem include frequent and unexplained fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, frequent infections, tingling, tingling and numbness in the extremities.

If you often have increased hunger even after eating, it means that the body cannot get glucose into the cells in time, so it keeps asking for more. Last but not least, mood swings, dry skin, itching and bad breath are signs of problems.

How to fight the problems and when to see a doctor?

In most cases, elevated sugar can be stabilised before diabetes fully develops. The most important thing is to change your diet. Prefer whole grains, vegetables, legumes and good quality protein. Most importantly, limit sweets, but also sugary drinks.

Frequent drinking of sweetened drinks and sodas is often the cause of diabetes ━━ Frequent drinking of sweetened drinks and sodas is often the cause of diabetes ( Source: Domepitipat /  iStockphoto )

Regular exercise, quality sleep and avoiding stress will also help, of course. It is important to drink plenty, as drinking enough helps to flush out excess sugar in the urine.

Last but not least, you can get a home glucose meter and monitor your blood sugar levels. In case you have it elevated for more than a few days, definitely see a doctor. Don’t underestimate regular check-ups especially if you have diabetes in your family.