Why Measuring Your Blood Sugar Level is Important | Dr Casey Means
Aug 22, 2023
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Dr. Casey Means, Stanford-trained physician and Co-founder of Levels, discusses the importance of blood sugar regulation, the impact of medications, and the best and worst foods for blood sugar. They explore transitioning from conventional medicine to a holistic approach and the significance of measuring blood sugar levels and glucose variability. The podcast also highlights the importance of physical activity, blood sugar patterns based on food choices, and the relationship between metabolic health and body-specific conditions.
Intense exercise can cause a beneficial spike in blood glucose levels, promoting insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.
During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, women may experience higher blood glucose levels, but maintaining healthy habits can help manage this.
Stress, lack of sleep, and certain medications can impact blood sugar levels, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and making appropriate lifestyle adjustments.
Deep dives
Impact of Exercise on Blood Sugar
Intense exercise such as high-intensity interval training and powerlifting can cause a sharp increase in blood glucose levels due to the release of stress hormones and glycogenolysis. However, this spike is different from a food-related glucose spike and is generally considered beneficial for insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.
Effects of Menstrual Cycle on Blood Sugar
During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, women may experience slightly higher blood glucose levels and decreased insulin sensitivity. This may be due to hormonal changes and is not necessarily problematic for most individuals. However, implementing strategies to support glucose disposal and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can be helpful during this phase.
Other Factors Affecting Blood Sugar
Stress and lack of sleep can both impact blood sugar levels. Acute stressors can lead to a temporary rise in blood glucose as a result of stress hormone release, while chronic stress and sleep deprivation can contribute to insulin resistance. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids, can also cause significant increases in blood glucose levels. Monitoring blood sugar and making appropriate lifestyle adjustments can help manage these fluctuations.
The Impact of Blood Sugar Levels on Glucose Disposal
The podcast episode explores the significance of blood sugar levels and their correlation with glucose disposal in the body. Studies have shown that insulin-sensitive individuals can dispose of up to 50 grams of glucose per meal within a two-hour timeframe. However, individuals with impaired glucose metabolism may experience higher blood sugar levels for an extended period, indicating potential underlying insulin resistance. The episode highlights the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels after meals and the potential risks associated with elevated levels, suggesting that a consistent walking routine after meals can significantly impact glucose regulation and enhance glucose uptake by activating muscles.
The Link Between Medications and Metabolic Health
The podcast delves into the impact of various medications on metabolic health, shedding light on their effect on blood sugar levels and mitochondrial function. Certain medications, including statins, antipsychotic drugs, and some antibiotics, have been associated with detrimental effects on metabolic processes. These medications can disrupt mitochondrial function, alter the microbiome, and lead to systemic metabolic issues. The episode advocates for further exploration of the unintended consequences of medications, emphasizing the importance of discussing potential risks and benefits with healthcare providers. The focus on metabolic health in addition to pharmaceutical treatments may open avenues for improved patient outcomes.
Casey Means, MD is a Stanford-trained physician and Chief Medical Officer and Co-founder of metabolic health company Levels. Her mission is to maximize human potential and reverse the epidemic of preventable chronic disease by empowering individuals with tech-enabled tools that can inform smart, personalized, and sustainable dietary and lifestyle choices. Dr. Means’s perspective has been recently featured in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, The New Yorker, Men's Health, Women's Health, and more.
In this episode we discuss:
Why is blood sugar regulation important?
The impact of too high or too low blood sugar levels.
The best and worst foods for blood sugar.
What are the impacts of medications on blood sugar and your body composition?
This episode is brought to you by LMNT, Bite Toothpaste, 1stPhorm, Inside Tracker
