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Insulin Levels Vs. Glucose Levels

Insulin levels and glucose levels rely on each other to keep the body's over alll blood glucose levels stable. This interdependent relationship is vital in people with diabetes, as the body cannot survive without either component.

  1. Insulin's Function

    • Insulin is a protein-based hormone that helps lower sugar levels after carbohydrates are consumed. People who have diabetes have trouble producing insulin, thus resulting in higher blood sugars.

    Blood Glucose

    • Eating sugary foods such as these gumdrops will raise your blood sugar, unless you have insulin actively working in your body.

      Blood glucose levels represent the amount of glucose (sugar) active in your bloodstream. The more carbohydrates you consume, the higher your glucose levels will be, unless you have insulin actively working in your body.

    Effects of too much insulin

    • Having too much insulin and not enough food can lead to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Signs of low blood sugar include peculiar behavior, shakiness, paleness, dizziness, unconsciousness or seizures.

    Effects of too much glucose

    • If blood glucose levels are too high (above 160 mg/dl) for a prolonged period of time, and no insulin is active in the body to compensate for it, you could experience potentially life-threatening side effects. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can lead to kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, coma and death.

    Solution

    • To ensure that insulin and blood glucose work together properly, you should get tested for diabetes. This is especially important if you have family history of diabetes, are overweight, or experience frequent urination, rapid weight loss, excessive thirst or tiredness. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, develop a treatment plan with your doctor and check your blood sugar often.

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