why high Glucose is not your heart`s friend

Hi there! Yesterday we talked about how good fats can help lower both high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
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Today, let's dive into the effects of glucose consumption on high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Many people don't realise that their diet is high in sugar, whether it's from sweet treats and snacks or high glucose foods like starchy carbohydrates such as pasta, bread and pastries etc.

When you consume these foods, your body is flooded with glucose, and as it's dangerous for the blood to be too high in glucose, after a complex process of storing some of the glucose away in the liver and muscles as glycogen, what`s left gets changed into triglycerides, a type of "bad" fat that cloggs up arteries and is stored around the organs.

Excess glucose becomes triglycerides

Now, here's the problem: having too high triglycerides can have a negative impact on heart health, leading to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It also puts pressure on the organs that it is stored around.   So, having a high glucose diet is a problem for heart health.

If you've been diagnosed with hypertension or high cholesterol, it's essential to reduce your glucose and fructose intake. This means avoiding sugary drinks, sweet treats and snacks, too many starchy carbohydrates and processed foods.  Instead choose low glycaemic index foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean protein sources.

Here's the thing, though. A lot of people don't realise they have high glucose levels or high triglycerides. That's where my happy heart health check comes in handy!

The happy heart health check tests cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, liver function, inflammation, B12, Folate, vitamin D, and Iron levels. These tests are useful in supporting heart health as they can detect any underlying health issues and provide insight into your overall health.

Why low nutrient levels affect your cardiovascular system

It`s important to know your nutrient levels as low levels of vitamin D, folate, B12, and iron can affect cardiovascular health.

First, let's talk about vitamin D.
Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Vitamin D helps regulate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which plays a role in blood pressure regulation. Additionally, vitamin D deficiency can lead to increased inflammation, which is a risk factor for heart disease.

Next up is folate, which is a type of B vitamin. Folate is involved in DNA synthesis, and it helps to lower levels of homocysteine in the blood. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Low levels of folate can lead to high homocysteine levels, and this can be a risk factor for heart disease.

Moving on to B12.   B12 is important for red blood cell production, and it also plays a role in the synthesis of DNA. Low levels of B12 can lead to anaemia, which means there aren't enough red blood cells in the body to carry oxygen to the organs. This can put a strain on the heart, as it has to work harder to pump blood around the body.

Finally, iron is another essential nutrient for heart health. Iron is a component of haemoglobin, which is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low iron levels can lead to anaemia, which, as I mentioned before, means there aren't enough red blood cells in the body to carry oxygen. This can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain, all of which can put a strain on the heart.

If you're concerned about your nutrient levels, it's a good idea to get a blood test to check your levels and take steps to improve your intake if needed.

Why is a liver function test included?

The liver metabolises fats, and if it's not working optimally, cholesterol can build up. It also deals with glucose, which can affect blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

That's why the health check includes a one-to-one session with myself, I will assess your test results and you'll be guided and supported with advice and supplement recommendations to address any low nutrient levels or anything else that shows up.
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In summary, a high glucose diet can be detrimental to your heart health. To reduce your risk of hypertension and high cholesterol, it's crucial to reduce your glucose and fructose intake. And don't forget, book your happy heart health check to ensure your heart is healthy and happy!
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