How Post-Meal Exercise Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Exercise and Blood Sugar Hello doctor, I have noticed that if I exercise after eating, my blood sugar remains within the normal range. However, if I remain seated and inactive after a meal, my blood sugar tends to be higher. Is this situation normal? Why does post-meal activity l...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Moderate exercise can utilize glucose as the primary energy source and increase the sensitivity of insulin receptors, thereby lowering blood glucose levels—both fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose two hours after meals. Consistent and regular exercise can also...[Read More] How Post-Meal Exercise Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Blood sugar issues Dear Dr. Hsiao, I have been concerned about my blood sugar levels since my health check in 2004, when my fasting blood glucose was 100. I only started medication in 2015, but my weight has decreased from my usual 38 kg to the current 34 kg. For the past ten ye...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. For a 65-year-old diabetic patient, a fasting blood glucose level of 155 mg/dL, a postprandial blood glucose level of 169 mg/dL two hours after eating, and a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.6% indicate relatively good control. Each of these values carries individual significance, an...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Severe constipation Last year, I drank laxative tea daily for weight loss and then switched to aloe vera capsules, which I eventually stopped using. However, now I cannot have regular bowel movements without relying on traditional Chinese medicine or probiotic powder to stimulate...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to develop a habit of using the restroom at a fixed time each day (preferably during a more relaxed period) and avoid reading newspapers or using your phone while on the toilet. 2. You can massage your abdomen, focusing on the area around the navel,...[Read More] Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
OGTT test and glycation? Hello doctor, if the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal at 5.1%, but the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) exceeds 200 mg/dL, would that be classified as diabetes? Is this a possibility? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (thi...[Read More] Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Medications for treating postprandial hyperglycemia? Hello, doctor. I heard that Metformin can be used to treat abnormal postprandial blood sugar levels. Can this medication really help the body return to normal? Once normal levels are achieved, can I stop taking it, or will I ne...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥6.5% (m...[Read More] Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Annoying hunger pangs Hello Doctor, in November 2014, during my health check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with diabetes (fasting blood sugar of 136 after 8 hours, HbA1c of 6.9). The doctor did not prescribe any medication but advised me to buy a blood glucose monitor for self-moni...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar is under control, but this does not mean that diabetes has been cured. 2. Regarding hunger, it is initially recommended to consume foods that are filling yet low in calories. For detailed advice, it is suggested that you consult a nutritionist at a hosp...[Read More] Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
What is the likelihood of developing diabetes? Hello Doctor, Happy New Year! I would like to ask about my fasting blood test results after 12 hours: Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 78.5, Hemoglobin 24.6, High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) 10.58, Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Your fasting blood test report shows an average red blood cell volume of 78.5, hemoglobin of 24.6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein of 10.58, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.7, GOT (AST) of 86, GPT (ALT) of 172, alkaline phosphatase of 110, total iron binding capacity of 5...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes Risk: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Elevated blood sugar levels in health checkup? The fasting blood glucose level from the health check was measured at 107 mg/dL, and the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal. I recently consumed more sweets than usual over the past two weeks. Could this have an impact, or is it u...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a normal fasting plasma glucose level is less than 100 mg/dL. If it falls between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL, it can be considered as prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Of course, if the postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL, diabetes s...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Impaired glucose tolerance 1. If eating a bowl of white rice results in a blood sugar level of around 169 two hours after the meal, while consuming steamed vegetables and wonton soup leads to a blood sugar level of 131 two hours later, does this indicate impaired glucose toleranc...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, normal postprandial blood glucose levels are less than 140 mg/dL. If the levels are between 140 mg/dL and 200 mg/dL, it is referred to as impaired glucose tolerance. Of course, if postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL, diabetes mellitus sh...[Read More] Understanding Glucose Intolerance: Causes, Effects, and Management Strategies
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: When to Test for Diabetes
Blood sugar issues Hello, doctor. Here are my fasting, pre-meal, and post-meal blood glucose readings from my glucose meter for September 9 and 10. On September 9: - Morning blood glucose: 77 (fasting, 10:00 AM), 85 (12:00 PM) - Afternoon blood glucose: 105 (1:00 PM), 108 (3:00...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a normal fasting blood glucose level is <100 mg/dL. 2. A fasting blood glucose level between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL indicates an increased risk for diabetes. 3. A fasting blood glucose level ≥126 mg/dL suggests possible diabetes. 4. A hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) l...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: When to Test for Diabetes
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Signs of Potential Diabetes
Unsure if diabetes has already developed? Hello, Doctor. Recently, I measured my fasting blood glucose at home using a glucometer, and it was 91 mg/dL (after fasting for about 10-12 hours). After eating curry rice (starting the timer from the first bite), my blood glucose one hou...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. If your weight is 92 kg and your height is 160 cm, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 35.9 kg/m². According to the classification by Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare, since it exceeds 27 kg/m² and is over 35 kg/m², it falls into the category of severe obesity. Additiona...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Signs of Potential Diabetes
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
Inquiry about blood sugar issues? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you a question. During my company's health check-up this year, the HR department informed me that fasting was not required. Therefore, I had breakfast on the day of the check-up and had my blood drawn about...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, if any of the following three criteria are met (at least twice), a diagnosis of diabetes can be made: a. Fasting plasma glucose level equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL. b. Presence of classic diabetes symptoms (such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased h...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Interpreting Your Test Results
Understanding Symptoms: Breathing Issues, Weight Loss, and Diabetes Concerns
Could you please provide more details about the symptoms? I would like to ask the doctor a few questions. 1. I have experienced occasional shortness of breath and difficulty breathing since middle school. Sometimes these symptoms disappear for a while, but recently they have be...
Dr. Chen Qingbin Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit a hospital for further examination of hyperthyroidism and other related conditions, which require blood tests. Additionally, issues related to sexual dysfunction should be evaluated by a urologist for proper diagnosis. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Breathing Issues, Weight Loss, and Diabetes Concerns
How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
How to control blood sugar levels? Hello Dr. Hsiao, On July 9, 2015, I had a blood test that showed a blood sugar level of 124. Additionally, my triglycerides and LDL cholesterol were elevated. At that time, my weight was 91 kg, and I currently weigh 84 kg. I measure my fasting ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. On July 9, 2015, your fasting blood glucose level was found to be 124 mg/dL; your lipid levels and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were elevated. At that time, your weight was 91 kg, and it is now 84 kg. Currently, your average fasting blood glucose levels after 8 ho...[Read More] How to Effectively Manage Blood Sugar Levels: Tips and Insights
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Testing: Common Questions Answered
Please ask again about the timing for blood glucose testing and any other related questions? Hello, Dr. Hsiao! I have read your previous response regarding my question about blood sugar testing times and other related issues, but I still have some confusion. I would like to ask a...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Question 1: The diagnostic criteria for diabetes published by the American Diabetes Association in 2010 are as follows: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dl after at least 8 hours of fasting. b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dl during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. ...[Read More] Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Testing: Common Questions Answered
Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
About diabetes? Hello Director Hsiao, Over two months ago, I had a blood test at the hospital, and my fasting blood glucose was 130 mg/dL, with a hemoglobin A1c of 6.4%. The doctor did not prescribe medication and advised dietary control instead. I purchased a blood glucose mete...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL corresponds to a glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of approximately 6.5%. Therefore, the test results from two months ago should be reliable. 2. In the classification of diabetes, type 2 diabetes accounts for about 92-95%...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Fluctuations in Diabetes Management
Understanding HbA1c Results: Do I Have Diabetes?
What are the issues related to diabetes? Hello, Doctor! I recently had my hemoglobin A1c tested, and the report showed 6.5% (I did not test fasting and postprandial blood glucose). I would like to ask if I have officially been diagnosed with diabetes. Previously, my hemoglobin A1...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, the onset of type 2 diabetes is gradual and is associated with factors such as genetics, weight, lack of exercise, overeating, alcohol abuse, and medication. Your weight of 113 kilograms is indeed a risk factor for developing the disease; moreover, the longer one is...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Results: Do I Have Diabetes?
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Weight loss Hello Doctor: Since April of this year, I have been working full-time collecting scrap metal. I am a person with a mental disability, and finding a job is not easy; therefore, I resorted to recycling. Initially, it was just a hobby, and I would only collect occasional...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, the most common causes of weight loss include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, chronic illnesses, cancer, and others; it also encompasses physical exertion, depression, anorexia, and so on. Since you have already been evaluated by a physician who ruled out the possibility...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss: A Case Study in Mental Health and Lifestyle
Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Digestive Issues
Annoying physical discomfort? Hello Doctor: Since the end of September last year, my weight has dropped from 68 kg to 52 kg. My height is 172 cm, and my condition includes a sudden decrease in appetite, lack of desire to eat, discomfort, nausea, and dizziness. I often experience ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you visit the Department of Metabolism and the Department of Gastroenterology at a medical center to determine the cause of your condition. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding Unexplained Weight Loss and Digestive Issues
Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?
Several questions regarding diabetes? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the high-risk groups for diabetes. I am a gallstone patient and have had my gallbladder removed. Does the absence of a gallbladder increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes? In my family history, ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Having a family history of type 2 diabetes indeed increases the likelihood of developing the condition. This apparent familial clustering of incidence may be attributed to genetic factors, as well as shared dietary and lifestyle habits shaped by cohabitation. The progression o...[Read More] Does Gallbladder Removal Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk?