Manage Your Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure to Extend Your Life and Maintain Better Health
Written by Susan Parker | Updated on May 28, 2025
Reviewed by Susan Parker
11 sources cited
Overview
Many people may not realize the dangers of sugar, but its accumulation in the bloodstream contributes to the deaths of thousands of Americans annually. Recent studies indicate that maintaining proper blood sugar and blood pressure levels can lead to better health and increased longevity, particularly for individuals with diabetes. It is concerning that nearly 40 million Americans are living with diabetes, with about eight million unaware of their condition. This makes diabetes the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, approximately one in three Americans, totaling around 96 million individuals, have elevated blood sugar levels, putting them at risk of developing diabetes. The diabetes epidemic is significantly impacting people's well-being, with a majority of individuals facing heart problems, chronic kidney disease, vision issues, or blindness. Taking proactive steps to address these prevalent health risks is crucial. Improving your health and quality of life can be achieved by addressing these health concerns seriously.Overview
The most critical actions you can take involve managing high blood sugar and lowering blood pressure levels. These measures are part of what experts refer to as "hitting metabolic targets," aiming to gain better control over the body's processes for converting food into energy to support cellular functions. Research conducted at the University of Gainesville, Florida, involving over 400 individuals with diabetes, demonstrates that those who reduced their high blood sugar levels to normal witnessed an increase of 3.8 years in life expectancy. The study utilized hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels to assess blood sugar, reflecting the average glucose level in the previous two to three months. Participants who lowered their HbA1C from 9.9 percent to 5.9 percent experienced substantial health benefits. Those who reduced their HbA1C to 7.7 percent, though still elevated, also saw an increase in life expectancy by 3.4 years.Lowering Blood Pressure Helped, Too
Lowering blood pressure was also found to be beneficial in the study. Individuals who maintained their systolic blood pressure around 114 gained approximately 2 years in life expectancy compared to those with higher readings. Bringing blood pressure below 140 also yielded positive outcomes. Maintaining a healthy weight can further enhance overall health. Individuals with a BMI around 24 gained nearly four more years in life expectancy compared to those with a BMI over 41. Achieving a BMI of 33 added an extra two years of expected longevity.Help For Improving Your Metabolism
The research underscores the importance of managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels to avoid severe health consequences and premature mortality. Implementing basic lifestyle changes can prevent falling victim to metabolic dysfunction. Regular exercise, such as daily walks, has been shown to enhance blood sugar and metabolism for up to 48 hours following a single session. Maintaining a consistent daily routine, including regular sleep patterns, can help control weight, stabilize blood sugar, reduce blood pressure, and lower the risk of stroke or heart attack. Avoiding processed foods is crucial for overall health and for regulating blood pressure. Opt for whole, natural foods like organic vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats to support blood sugar and blood pressure management. By making healthier choices and committing to positive lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly improve their health and well-being.- https://www.diabetes.org/about-us/statistics/about-diabetes
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