Stable Blood Sugar
In our discussion of the macronutrients, we mentioned the concept of stabile blood sugar levels. What does a stable blood sugar level mean and how is it important in a healthy weight loss program?
When you consume carbohydrates, your body experiences a spike in blood sugar levels due to a rise in glucose in your bloodstream. In response to this rise in glucose levels, the pancreas releases the hormone, insulin. Insulin is necessary in the right amounts to maintain a healthy blood sugar level and, thus, is a necessary consideration in a healthy weight loss program.
However, when excessive amounts of carbohydrates are ingested, particularly high glycemic (sugar content) carbohydrates, insulin converts the excess glucose in the blood into triglycerides (blood fat) that are then stored in the fat cells.
This creates a sudden drop in glucose levels (hypoglycemia) that in turn results in the release of cortisol. Cortisol is a dangerous hormone that actually kills brain cells, increases fat storage, and breaks down lean muscle mass.
So, how do we control our blood sugar levels, stop storing fat, and start burning it? The answer is found in two easy steps:
Choose low/moderate glycemic index carbohydrates. Combine these carbohydrates with a protein or essential oil/fat. The combination and balance of a protein and carbohydrate trigger the release of another potent hormone, glucagon. Glucagon, like insulin, maintains a healthy blood sugar balance. However, unlike insulin, glucagon promotes fat burning and mobilization.
Advantages to maintaining a stable blood sugar level:
- Promotes fat loss
- Consistent energy levels
- Controls hunger cravings
- Reduces risk for diabetes
Excessive sugar and insulin can directly effect the strength of your immune and cardiovascular system. For healthy weight loss and to maintain and even increase your biological age, it is important to maintain stability in your blood sugar level.
Part 3 of this article will discuss the concept of micronutrients.
