EP 14: How to Regulate Your Blood Sugar with Dr. Matthew McNamee

The Prevalence of Blood Sugar Issues in Older Adults

Dr. Matt kicks off the conversation with a startling statistic. Based on his extensive experience with patients, he notes that around 80-85%, maybe even up to 90%, of people over 50 are either on the verge of pre-diabetes or already in that stage.

"There are people with thin frames who have insulin resistance. In the last 15 years, the bulk of the population has some degree of insulin resistance. They're not going to pick it up on most traditional markers."

This statement underscores the fact that insulin resistance and blood sugar dysregulation are widespread issues, affecting a broad spectrum of people, including those who don't fit the typical profile of someone with diabetes.

Understanding Blood Sugar Tests

Let's break down the three key tests used to monitor blood sugar levels:

1. Fasting Blood Sugar (Glucose)

Most people are familiar with this test, as it's part of a comprehensive metabolic panel during routine blood work. This test measures your baseline glucose levels without food in your bloodstream.

2. Hemoglobin A1c

This test gives an average of your blood sugar levels over a three to four month period. It measures the percentage of hemoglobin in your blood that is coated with sugar.

3. Fasting Insulin

Not as commonly used, this test measures the insulin hormone produced by the pancreas. It works like a lock-and-key system: insulin is the key, and the receptor on our cells is the lock. This test helps in understanding how much insulin your body is producing.

Optimal Ranges:

Fasting Blood Sugar: Aim for a range between 81 and 100 mg/dL.

Hemoglobin A1c: Should be 5.3 or under.

Fasting Insulin: Functional medicine practitioners recommend a range of 3-8 mU/L.

Causes of Blood Sugar Imbalance

There are both typical and atypical reasons why people develop blood sugar regulation issues. Let's explore some of these factors:

Typical Reasons:

1. Inflammation: General inflammation makes it harder for insulin to function effectively.

2. Diet: High carbohydrate intake, especially from hidden starches like potatoes, pasta, and bread, can spike blood sugar levels.

3. Sleep: Poor sleep or lack of sleep can drive insulin resistance.

4. Stress: Chronic stress raises blood sugar levels as part of the body's "fight or flight" response.

Atypical Reasons:

Even gluten or other substances can mimic insulin in the body, leading to incorrect blood sugar readings. This happens due to autoimmune reactivity where the body starts attacking its own pancreas cells, mistaking them for foreign invaders.

Personalized Approaches to Managing Blood Sugar

Dr. Matt emphasizes a personalized approach in managing blood sugar levels, starting with sleep and stress management. Once these are under control, dietary changes can be more effective.

Sleep and Stress Management

Quality sleep and daily stress resilience practices are foundational for improving blood sugar regulation.

Dietary Changes

1. Timing: Avoiding food late at night can significantly impact insulin sensitivity.

2. Composition: Increasing fiber, healthy fats, and protein intake while reducing starchy carbs.

3. Gradual Changes: Starting with small, manageable changes like reducing gluten or setting a cut-off time for late-night eating.

"I try to meet people where they're at, figure out what they're willing to change, and build from there. Small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements over time."

Impact of Gut Health on Blood Sugar

Gut health plays a crucial role in blood sugar regulation. Issues like leaky gut syndrome, driven by gluten intake, can lead to blood sugar imbalances. Improving gut health by addressing gastrointestinal issues can have a positive impact on glucose levels.

If you feel like you're operating at less than 100%, it's time to take control of your health. With the Optimal Health Assessment by Tiger Medical, get comprehensive blood screening to identify hidden health risks before it's too late. Our team of Mayo-trained and naturopathic physicians will analyze your results and provide a custom plan to optimize your well-being.

Visit www.OptimalHealthAssessment.com today and unlock your full potential. When you feel your best, you can achieve your best.

In summary, regulating blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining overall health, and it's more common than you think, even among those who appear healthy. By understanding the underlying causes and taking personalized, actionable steps—such as improving sleep, managing stress, and making dietary adjustments—you can effectively manage and even reverse blood sugar dysregulation.

Stay tuned for more episodes of Optimal Health Weekly, where we bring you the latest insights to help you lead a healthier, more successful life.timizing your entire life. When your immune system is functioning at its peak, you'll experience:

• Increased energy and productivity
• Improved mental clarity and focus
• Enhanced overall well-being
• Reduced risk of chronic diseases

"If you want to, you know, be more productive, want to be sick less, if you want to stack the odds that you're going to lower your risk of disease, especially something like cancer, you're going to want to optimize your immune function." - Steve Adams

The Journey to Optimal Health

Remember, the path to optimal health is a journey, not a destination. Start by making one positive change today, and build from there. Whether it's swapping out your morning bagel for a nutrient-dense smoothie or setting a consistent sleep schedule, every step counts.

For those ready to take their health to the next level, consider comprehensive testing to get a clear picture of your current health status. Tools like the True Health Assessment from Tiger Medical Institute can provide valuable insights and a personalized roadmap to peak performance.

Investing in Your Most Valuable Asset

Your health is your greatest wealth. By understanding and optimizing your immune function, you're not just safeguarding against illness – you're unlocking your full potential in every area of life.

Remember, small changes can lead to big results. Start your journey to optimal immune health today, and watch as your energy, productivity, and overall well-being soar to new heights. Your future self will thank you for the investment you make in your health today.

Are you ready to take charge of your immune health and unlock your body's full potential? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and let's support each other on this journey to optimal health!