At Bartley Clinic, we believe that preventive medicine is the cornerstone of longevity and well-being. One crucial aspect of health assessment is monitoring fasting blood glucose levels. In this blog post, we explore why testing for fasting blood glucose is essential, what abnormal levels may indicate, and how our doctors can help you optimize your glucose management.
Fasting blood glucose refers to the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood after an overnight fast. This simple blood test provides valuable insights into your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, which is linked to longevity.
Why Is Testing for Fasting Blood Glucose Important?
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Early Detection of Diabetes: Elevated fasting blood glucose levels may indicate prediabetes or diabetes. Detecting these conditions early allows for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications.
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Risk Assessment: Abnormal glucose levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, and nerve damage. Regular monitoring helps assess your risk and guides preventive strategies.
- Longevity Predictor: Research suggests that maintaining optimal blood glucose levels contributes to a longer life. Chronic high blood sugar accelerates aging and increases susceptibility to age-related diseases.
Interpreting Fasting Blood Glucose Levels
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Normal Range: A fasting blood glucose level below 6.1 mmol is considered normal. However, individual variations exist, and personalized targets may apply.
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Prediabetes: Fasting blood glucose between 6.1-6.9 mmol/L indicates prediabetes. Lifestyle changes can prevent progression to diabetes.
- Diabetes: A fasting blood glucose level of 7.0 mmol/L or higher on two separate occasions confirms diabetes. Immediate management is crucial.
Impact on Longevity and Overall Health
Maintaining normal fasting blood glucose levels is crucial for overall health and well-being. When blood glucose levels remain within the normal range, the body can efficiently convert glucose into energy, fueling vital organs and tissues.
However, consistently elevated blood glucose levels can lead to insulin resistance, where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, the hormone responsible for transporting glucose into cells. This can eventually progress to prediabetes or type 2 diabetes if left untreated, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and other complications.
Abnormal fasting blood glucose levels can indicate underlying metabolic dysfunction and may warrant further investigation and intervention. If the test reveals elevated glucose levels (hyperglycaemia), it may signify prediabetes or diabetes, highlighting the need for lifestyle modifications and medical management to prevent complications and improve health outcomes.
How We Can Help
At Bartley Clinic, we offer comprehensive assessments, including fasting blood glucose tests. We analyze your results, consider your unique health profile, and create personalized strategies to optimize glucose levels. Our approach combines nutrition, exercise, stress management, and medication (if necessary) to enhance longevity and well-being.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Regular fasting blood glucose tests empower you to take proactive steps toward a healthier, longer life. Not sure where to begin your health journey? Noviu365 is here for you. Take our personalised quiz to unveil recommendations that align with your unique risk factors, lifestyle habits, and health goals. Start your journey to enhanced health and longevity today. Available exclusively at Bartley Clinic.
References:
- “ Understanding Prediabetes: Signs, Symptoms and Treatment” https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/understanding-prediabetes-signs-symptoms-and-treatment
- “Association between fasting glucose and all-cause mortality according to sex and age: a prospective cohort study” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5557842/
