Breaking the Sugar-Stress Cycle
By Deborah Kern, Ph.D

The extreme rise and fall of one’s blood sugar several times throughout the day and the resultant over-stimulation of insulin leads to what is being called “The Metabolic Syndrome." It is the underlying cause of dyslipidemia (high triglycerides, low HDL), high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity. Unlike a genetic disorder, this phantom disorder can be fully prevented. The earlier you begin reversing it, the healthier you will be.

The 4 Stages of Insulin Resistance

1. Glycemic Stress
2. Insulin Resistance
3. Metabolic Syndrome
4. Diabetes

Stage 1: GLYCEMIC STRESS FROM ABUSING INSULIN

It has been a big disservice to focus only on fat in our diets. A breakfast of cold cereal, bagels, instant oatmeal and sweetened orange juice creates the first of many blood sugar spikes throughout our day. This stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas and suppresses the release of glucagons (fat releasing hormone).

One of the main effects of the abuse of insulin is the effect on the arteries. Elevated blood sugar levels and subsequent insulin response cause inflammation of the arteries. We are starting to see this endothelial dysfunction in children as young as 10 years of age!

STAGE 2: INSULIN RESISTANCE

The endothelial dysfunction causes vasoconstriction (narrowing) in the capillary bed, which acts as a barrier to the transport of insulin to receptor sites. The body responds by producing more insulin and a chain of events are triggered that cannot be stopped without significant lifestyle interventions.

Symptoms of Insulin Resistance
The changes are taking place on a cellular and hormonal level and you may not “feel” any different. You most likely will feel fine with few physical complaints other than:

• Feeling groggy
• Craving carbs
• Night-time eating
• Increasing weight gain
• Resistance to losing weight

STAGE 3: METABOLIC SYNDROME

Over time, people with early insulin resistance become increasingly more resistant, which causes insulin to continue to rise. These elevated insulin levels create a dramatic metabolic effect:

• High blood pressure
• Increased absorption of sodium from kidneys
• Stimulates sympathetic nervous system (constriction)
• Stimulates smooth muscle growth of arteries
• Dyslipidemia
• Increased fibrinogen (blood clotting)
• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
• Increased risk of diabetes

STAGE 4: DIABETES

Type 2 diabetes has increased over 500% during the past generation an estimated 90% of these are due to insulin resistance.

The cause of obesity and diabetes is long term, low-grade inflammation due to insulin insensitivity, caused by many years of unhealthy lifestyle. A quick fix “diet” method is not going to “cure” a chronic problem.

Insulin insensitivity is caused by many years of over-stimulation of blood sugar due to 3 things:

• Overabundance of the 5 stress foods (highly processed and high glycemic foods)
• Lack of aerobic physical activity to the fine capillaries that makes the muscles
  more rigid and liable to damage.
• Poor cellular nutrition due to lifestyle and oxidation caused by stress and toxins
  from food and environment.

What is the cure?

• Diet that is low glycemic. Plenty of organic vegetables, fruits, legumes and grains
  as well as healthy fats and proteins.
• Daily physical activity
• Proper cellular nutrition.
• At least ½ ounce pure water per pound body weight.
• Positive thoughts.
• Healthy pleasures.
• Good relationships.
• Spiritual connection.
  

Dr. Kern is a health scientist, Washington Wellness Associate, Team Northrup Leader, fellow black belt Nia instructor and much, much more. She is the author of Everyday Wellness for Women and co-author of Create the Body Your Soul Desires: The Friendship Solution to Weight, Energy and Sexuality. I am blessed to work with her in several areas of my professional life. You can learn more about Deb at www.deborahkern.com.