Optimal metabolic health, essential for overall well-being, involves stable energy, improved memory, sustained exercise endurance, healthy weight, mental health, and a strong immune system. Disrupted glucose metabolism, often due to poor dietary choices, leads to issues like insulin resistance and chronic diseases. Monitoring and managing blood sugar levels with tools like continuous glucose monitors are key to enhancing metabolic health and mitigating risks.

Many people believe that Metabolism plays a role in weight loss.  This  is not entirely true. Metabolism is the process in which the cells in our body generate  energy through cellular mechanisms from the food we eat and from our environment. The energy produced is responsible for powering every activity in our body. When the energy production runs smoothly, we have optimal metabolic health. Since every single cell in our system needs energy to perform at the highest level, metabolic health is the base for health and wellbeing.

 What are the benefits of good  metabolic health?

• Stable and sustained energy throughout the day
• Better memory 
• Sustained exercise endurance
• Healthy weight
• Better mental health
• Strong immune system
• Reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease, heart disease, etc.

 

The Impact of Glucose Metabolism

Glucose is the simplest form of carbohydrates (carbs) that we get from our food.  Our body breaks down complex dietary sugar molecules into glucose. When glucose enters the bloodstream, it signals the pancreas to release insulin, a hormone that triggers glucose absorption. While some of this glucose is processed for creating energy, the rest of the excess glucose is stored in the muscle and liver as glycogen for future needs. 

When our system starts processing too much dietary glucose over long periods of time, it disturbs the balance of the metabolic pathways and leads to health issues. Conditions such as high amounts of glucose in the bloodstream can result in a condition called insulin resistance.  Excess glucose in the bloodstream may also cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and glycation. Given the potential harmful effects excess glucose may have on our metabolism, it is not surprising that most of the common chronic metabolic diseases result from poor glucose management. 

Risks Associated With Poor Metabolic Health 

Research shows that 88 percent of Americans are not metabolically healthy and 71.6 percent of the U.S. population is overweight or obese. Why are we witnessing such a high prevalence of poor metabolic health and its consequences? Genetic factors may play a role in shaping our metabolism, but lifestyle choices, especially regarding diet play a significant role.

To improve metabolic health, first step would be to focus on managing your blood sugar level. A continuous glucose monitor is one of the best tools to track your sugar intake. By monitoring glucose, you can manage your food and lifestyle choices that influence your metabolic health.