How Psyllium Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Did you know that national nutrition surveys show that the average American eats 22 teaspoons of sugar per day? 1 That’s more than double the recommended daily amount. Plus, less than 10% of Americans get their daily recommended fiber intake each day.2 The sugar surplus and fiber gap in today’s typical diet is a real problem. We get most of our sugar through what we eat, and this sugar fuels our bodies.3 While sugar-or glucose-provides energy, controlling the levels of glucose present in our blood is critical for maintaining a healthy weight and healthy body systems.4 Healthy people have a blood sugar concentration that is constantly changing based on diet and activity but overall is relatively stable and is maintained by the body without ever having to think about it. High intake of sugar with low intake of fiber can make the body work to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Take our Metamucil Two-Week Challenge. Why are healthy blood sugar levels important?



All the cells of our body are fueled by sugar in our blood stream. Simple sugars are absorbed into your bloodstream very quickly, while more complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and absorb. Over time regularly eating large amounts of simple processed sugars can impact your body’s ability to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, 88 million people in the U.S, have prediabetes,7 which is a concerning statistic given how life-changing this diagnosis can be. According to the Cleveland Clinic, among supplements that have been studied for their ability to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, psyllium’s evidence was graded the highest. It helps control hunger. Since consuming sugar or carbohydrate heavy foods is what makes our blood sugar levels rise, limiting sugar intake is one way of helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It traps sugar in the digestive system. Metamucil, through its gelling action, also helps slow sugar absorption from the digestive tract. How does psyllium work?



When the gelled psyllium and sugar are present in the digestive tract together, the gelled psyllium traps some sugars slowing down their absorption. These trapped sugars are then released over time and absorbed more slowly into the blood stream. Here are 5 more tips to achieving your blood sugar goals to support a healthy life. Another advantage of exercise is that when done regularly, it can improve insulin sensitivity.12 Maintaining insulin sensitivity is critical for the body’s ability to regulate its blood sugar levels. Low carb diets can lower blood sugar levels.13 Since foods high in sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and elevation, it is important to educate yourself on the amount of sugar in your diet to help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Another way to minimize blood sugar spikes is to choose foods with a low glycemic index. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of the change in blood sugar by a specific amount of food compared to the same amount of pure glucose, a simple sugar.



High GI foods with a GI of 75 or higher will have a rapid and larger impact on blood sugar whereas low GI foods, those with a GI of 55 or less, will have a slower and smaller impact on blood sugar. Examples of low GI foods are beans, whole grains, nuts, and most fruits and vegetables. 3. Consume foods with fiber. Just as psyllium fiber supplements can help to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, astrology365.ru fiber rich foods can also be beneficial. Foods rich in fiber have more complex carbohydrates and fewer simple sugars so it takes the body longer to digest them. Dehydration is unhealthy for many reasons, one of them being the potential to increase blood sugar levels.15 Drinking plenty of water daily is vital for optimal body functioning. The standard recommendation to drink eight glasses of water per day sets a reasonable goal.17 More specific targets should be worked with your health care provider.



Studies have found that sleep deprivation can lead to an increased appetite, reduced feeling of fullness, and a tendency to choose foods dense in both calories and carbohydrates.20 The CDC recommends that adults get at least 7 hours of sleep every night.21 However, it’s not just important to get enough sleep, the quality of sleep also matters. Besides ensuring that you receive 7 or more hours of sleep, there are many ways to improve your quality of sleep. Create a bedtime routine of activities that are relaxing such as journal writing, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to prepare your brain and body for sleep while also managing stress.22 Limit your caffeine intake eight hours before bedtime and ensure your last meal is a few hours before sleeping.20. Check with your health Glyco Care supplement professional if you are currently using any medications to control your blood sugar levels. Check the package for appropriate serving size. Metamucil Capsules: Take 5 capsules up to 4 times per day before each meal to help support healthy blood sugar levels.