Blood sugar control is a major issue in America today. It is estimated that over 50% of the U.S. population over the age of 65 has either pre-diabetes or diabetes. This is due to the tremendously high level of simple  sugars, processed foods and a lack of regular exercise in this country.

There are 4 stages of poor blood glucose control. Patients may start with insulin resistance where they have a normal fasting blood sugar, but their fasting insulin level is higher than it should be (>6mIU/ml). The second stage is called impaired glucose tolerance where the insulin level is high,
and the blood sugar level now starts to climb. Interestingly, the HgA1c (a blood marker of average blood sugar levels over a 3-month period) is usually under 6% at this stage (optimal is at or below 5.2%). The third stage of poor blood sugar control is referred to as pre-diabetes where the fasting insulin and blood sugar are both high and the HgA1c is now high but below 6.5%. The last stage or poor blood sugar control is considered type 2 diabetes. At this stage fasting insulin is high, fasting blood sugar is also high, and HgA1c is above 6.5%. The problem with traditional medicine’s approach to these stages is that the providers wait until they see changes in the HgA1c before treating, and much of the tissue and organ damage has already occurred throughout the earlier stages of this disease.

At Customized Relief, we believe in early management of blood sugar levels. We have advanced testing that includes a “beta cell function test.” This simple blood test gives the practitioner insights into blood sugar, insulin, insulin receptor sensitivity and activity of the beta cells in the pancreas to determine how best to treat each patient. In our approach, we will use specific dietary suggestions including specific limits on the simple carbohydrate and fatty macros along with a specific pattern of protein intake that is adjusted to each person by age and weight. Exercise is another key component to managing this condition. We will personalize an exercise program that is simple but effective in improving insulin sensitivity. We will also use prescriptive medications when needed, but with a goal of eventually weaning off of these medications as the insulin resistance resolves.