Monitoring blood sugar levels is not only important for people with diabetes – it is essential for everyone.

Unbalanced blood sugar levels can cause a range of health problems, some of which you may already be experiencing. In this article, we present twelve signs of high blood sugar, explain the potential risks, and give you practical tips for effective blood sugar control.

Understanding blood sugar

Blood sugar, also called blood glucose, is essential for your body's function. It's the primary fuel for your cells, providing the energy you need for your daily activities. Your body regulates blood sugar levels with insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Simply put, your pancreas releases insulin to ensure there's enough to transport glucose into your cells.

However, if this process is disrupted (for example, if the cells are insulin resistant and cannot properly absorb insulin), this can lead to high blood sugar levels, also known as hyperglycemia.