Insulin resistance (IR) is a pathological condition in which cells fail to respond normally to the hormone insulin.

Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose to enter cells which also reduces blood glucose (blood sugar). Insulin is released by the pancreas in response to carbohydrates consumed in the diet. In states of insulin resistance, the same amount of insulin does not have the same effect on glucose transport and blood sugar levels. There are many causes of insulin resistance and the underlying ...

insulin resistance

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Botanical-Profile-of-Jiaogulan-(Gynostemma-pentaphyllum)

Botanical Profile of Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum)

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Belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a perennial climbing vine endemic to China, Japan, Korea, and certain regions of Southeast Asia. This botanically remarkable plant, characterized by tendrils enabling it to climb, bears leaves typically grouped in fives, hence the name pentaphyllum. Thriving in moist, shaded environments, it's commonly found in forests and thickets at altitudes ranging from 300 to 3,100 meters (2).

Unleashing-the-Health-Benefits-of-Gynostemma-pentaphyllum

Unleashing the Health Benefits of Gynostemma pentaphyllum

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The active compounds found in G. pentaphyllum, referred to as gypenosides, may drive its adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects (3). Adaptogens support the body's stress response, antioxidants battle cellular damage caused by free radicals, and anti-inflammatory substances reduce inflammation within the body. G. pentaphyllum's potential to modulate immune responses and inhibit inflammation has been highlighted in a study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" (4).

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Easy-Recipes-for-Gynostemma-pentaphyllum-(Jiaogulan)-Home-Preparation

Easy Recipes for Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan) Home Preparation

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<ol><li>Jiaogulan is often enjoyed as a soothing tea. Steep a handful of dried Jiaogulan leaves in boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and savor the wellness in a cup.

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</li><li>To enhance the potency, simmer the leaves gently for 15-20 minutes (5).

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</li><li> Also, these leaves can be a healthful addition to salads, soups, and stir-fries, providing a unique way to incorporate this beneficial herb into your diet.

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Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Q: What are the potential side effects of G. pentaphyllum?

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A: While generally well-tolerated, G. pentaphyllum can cause minor side effects like nausea and increased bowel movements in some individuals. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended before starting any new supplement.

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Q: Can I cultivate G. pentaphyllum at home?

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A: Absolutely! G. pentaphyllum can thrive at home, either in a pot or a garden, as long as it has access to shade and moist soil.

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Q: How does G. pentaphyllum taste?

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A: G. pentaphyllum is known for its slightly sweet, earthy flavor, likened to green tea but with a milder touch.

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Q: Is it safe to consume G. pentaphyllum during pregnancy or while nursing?

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A: While there's no definitive evidence suggesting harm, it's always a safer bet to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new herbs or supplements during pregnancy or while nursing.

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Q: Can G. pentaphyllum interact with other medications?

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A: Yes, G. pentaphyllum may interact with certain medications, especially those related to blood pressure and blood sugar control. It's always essential to discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including G. pentaphyllum, if you are on any medications.

References

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Razmovski-Naumovski, V., et al. (2005). Chemistry and Pharmacology of Gynostemma pentaphyllum. Phytochemistry Reviews, 4, 197-219.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liu, J., et al. (2016). Gynostemma pentaphyllum: a review of its phytochemistry and pharmacology. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 11, 361-383.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chen, JC., et al. (2012). Gypenosides reduced the risk of overweight and insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice through modulating adipose thermogenesis and gut microbiota. Journal of Biomedical Science, 24, 47.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Schild, L., et al. (2010). Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Gynostemma pentaphyllum. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 130, 1-9.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blumenthal, M., et al. (2013). Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Integrative Medicine Communications, pp. 169-173.</li></ol>

Gynostemma pentaphyllum, or Jiaogulan, is a potent plant with promising adaptogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its health benefits, backed by traditional Chinese medicine and current scientific research, make it a powerful addition to your wellness regimen.

Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan): Unraveling the Health Secrets of the Immortality Herb

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Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Jiaogulan): Unraveling the Health Secrets of 

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Symptoms-of-hyperglycemia

Symptoms of hyperglycemia

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Hyperglycemia is characterized by abnormally high blood glucose levels. Some common symptoms associated with this condition include:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Frequent urination</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Excessive thirst</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Increased hunger</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blurred vision</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Slow-healing wounds</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weight loss</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dry mouth and dry skin</li></ol>

Possible-causes-of-hyperglycemia

Possible causes of hyperglycemia

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Some diseases and conditions that can cause hyperglycemia are:

Type-1-diabetes

Type 1 diabetes

Type-1-diabetes_1_0

&nbsp;An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Consult an endocrinologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Type-2-diabetes

Type 2 diabetes

Type-2-diabetes_1_0

A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels. Endocrinologists specialize in diagnosing and treating this condition.

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Gestational-diabetes

Gestational diabetes

Gestational-diabetes_1_0

A form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, usually resolving after childbirth. Seek advice from an obstetrician or endocrinologist.

Cushing's-syndrome

Cushing's syndrome

Cushing's-syndrome_1_0

&nbsp;A hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Consult an endocrinologist or an internal medicine specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis_1_0

&nbsp;Inflammation of the pancreas that can disrupt insulin production. Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and managing this condition.

Side-effects-of-medical-drugs

Side effects of medical drugs

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Some medications can cause hyperglycemia as a side effect:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Corticosteroids: Often prescribed for inflammation, these drugs can raise blood sugar levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thiazide diuretics: Used to treat high blood pressure, these medications can increase glucose levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Beta-blockers: Another class of drugs for high blood pressure, which can also cause blood sugar spikes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Statins: Cholesterol-lowering drugs that may contribute to elevated blood glucose.</li></ul>

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Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

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Several herbs and natural remedies can help manage blood glucose levels:

Cinnamon-verum-(Cinnamomum-verum)

Cinnamon verum  (Cinnamomum verum)

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Known for its blood sugar-lowering properties, cinnamon also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Gymnema-sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre

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This herb has been used in traditional medicine to reduce blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.

Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum)_3_0

&nbsp;Rich in fiber and antioxidants, fenugreek seeds can help lower blood sugar levels and improve overall glucose metabolism.

Bitter-melon-(Momordica-charantia)

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)

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This fruit has insulin-like properties that can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Lifestyle-changes

Lifestyle changes

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To prevent or manage hyperglycemia, consider the following lifestyle modifications:

Lifestyle-changes_4_1

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Maintain a healthy diet, focusing on whole foods and minimizing processed sugars.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Engage in regular physical activity to help regulate blood glucose levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monitor your blood sugar regularly and adjust your treatment plan as needed.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Manage stress, as it can contribute to blood sugar fluctuations.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Get sufficient sleep to support overall health and wellbeing.</li></ol>

Lifestyle-changes_4_2

Below-are-ten-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-covered-in-the-article:

Below are ten frequently asked questions that are not covered in the article:

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Q: How do I know if my blood glucose levels are too high?

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A: Regular blood sugar monitoring can help you track your levels. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on target ranges.

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Q: Can hyperglycemia be reversed?

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A: In some cases, lifestyle changes and proper medical care can help manage or reverse hyperglycemia. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.

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Q: Can stress cause high blood sugar levels?

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A: Yes, stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, which can raise blood sugar levels. Managing stress is essential for overall health and blood sugar control.

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Q: How does exercise affect blood glucose levels?

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A: Exercise can help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by muscle cells.

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Q: What is a healthy diet for managing hyperglycemia?

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A: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while minimizing processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, can help manage blood sugar levels.

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Q: Can weight loss help with hyperglycemia?

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A: Yes, losing weight (if you are overweight) can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels.

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Q: How often should I check my blood glucose levels?

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A: The frequency of monitoring depends on individual circumstances and your healthcare provider's recommendations. For some, it may be multiple times a day, while others may need to check less frequently.

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Q: Can alcohol consumption affect blood sugar levels?

Below-are-ten-frequently-asked-questions-that-are-not-covered-in-the-article:_5_22

A: Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to blood sugar fluctuations. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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Q: Can hyperglycemia lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

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A: Yes, prolonged high blood glucose levels, especially in people with type 1 diabetes, can result in DKA, a life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical care if you suspect DKA.

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Q: Are there any long-term complications associated with uncontrolled hyperglycemia?

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A: Uncontrolled hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, vision problems, and an increased risk of infections.

Hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose, is a condition that can result from various diseases and medical conditions, such as diabetes and Cushing's syndrome. Certain medications, like corticosteroids and beta-blockers, can also contribute to elevated blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and fatigue. To manage this condition, you can explore herbal and natural treatments like cinnamon and fenugreek, and make lifestyle changes like adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. Consult a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or a gastroenterologist, to determine the appropriate course of action for your specific situation.

High Blood Glucose: Understanding Hyperglycemia and Its Consequences

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Basics-of-metabolism

Basics of metabolism 

Basics-of-metabolism_0_0

Metabolism refers to the processes that the body uses to break down nutrients, form compounds that cells can use for energy, and use these compounds to power the body's functions.&nbsp;

Basics-of-metabolism_0_1

Your body releases enzymes to break down food into sugars, proteins and fats. Each cell in your body can then take them in and use them in aerobic or anaerobic metabolic processes to form adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the fuel used by the cell.

Basics-of-metabolism_0_2

The general metabolism of your body includes muscle contraction, breathing, blood circulation, maintaining body temperature, digesting food, eliminating waste, and brain and nervous system function.

Basics-of-metabolism_0_3

During exercise, for example, you increase metabolism in the muscles and the respiratory and circulatory systems. You need faster breathing and heart rate to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. Your body also needs to work harder to prevent overheating, such as through sweating.

Types-of-metabolism

Types of metabolism 

Types-of-metabolism_0_0

There are two types of metabolism that the body uses to convert fuel (the food you eat) into energy.

Types-of-metabolism_0_1

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aerobic metabolism - During aerobic metabolism, your body creates energy by burning carbohydrates, amino acids and fats in the presence of oxygen. Aerobic metabolism provides energy for exercise and other body functions (such as breathing). Examples of activities that use aerobic metabolism include walking, running, or cycling with prolonged effort. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5016084/" target="_blank" data-ref="Page not available - PMCTwitterFacebookLinkedInGitHubSM-TwitterSM-FacebookSM-Youtube" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anaerobic metabolism - Anaerobic metabolism creates energy by burning carbohydrates in the absence of oxygen. This happens when your lungs can't deliver enough oxygen to your bloodstream to handle your muscles' energy needs. It is usually only used for short extreme moments of activity, such as when sprinting, when running or cycling, or lifting heavy weights. When there is not enough oxygen in the bloodstream, glucose and glycogen cannot be completely broken down into carbon dioxide and water. Instead, lactic acid is produced, which accumulates in the muscles and worsens muscle function. Because of this, we suffer from the so-called "muscle soreness" after some serious physical efforts.</li></ul>

Anaerobic-versus-aerobic-metabolism

Anaerobic versus aerobic metabolism 

Anaerobic-versus-aerobic-metabolism_0_0

Anaerobic-versus-aerobic-metabolism_0_1

Anaerobic metabolism is not as efficient as aerobic metabolism. A glucose molecule can produce only 3 ATP molecules in anaerobic metabolism, while it produces 39 in aerobic metabolism. ATP is what feeds the muscles.

Anaerobic-versus-aerobic-metabolism_0_2

Anaerobic metabolism can only use glucose and glycogen, while aerobic metabolism can also break down fats and proteins. Intense exercise periods in the anaerobic zone with a heart rate above 85% of the maximum heart rate will use anaerobic metabolism to feed the muscles.

Anaerobic-versus-aerobic-metabolism_0_3

Although your body will naturally use the energy pathways that will best do the job according to it, you have a choice of how intensely to exercise and thus control fat burning to a large extent.

Running-or-walking-for-accelerated-fat-burning

Running or walking for accelerated fat burning 

Gradually, we come to the conclusion that walking may be the best way to maintain or lose weight. But many health professionals and coaches, as well as athletes, will tell you that running is suitable for losing weight and maintaining good shape. This is true, but only in some cases. People for whom running is suitable as a physical activity should fall into one of the following categories:
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">With normal insulin sensitivity</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">With normal physique and good physical shape</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">With preference for running as an activity</li>
</ul>
Who is walking suitable for? In general, for everyone else - people who are overweight, people who have problems with insulin, impaired metabolism, people without proper physical training and others.&nbsp;
Rapid fat loss is usually achieved through extreme measures and restrictions, which often leads to the yo-yo effect or return of lost weight. Therefore, always look for sustainable and balanced solutions for your health and do not experiment with it, because the body is a set of components, processes and mechanisms that work in sync and it is good to support it in this mission.&nbsp;