030: Sugar, Blood Glucose, Insulin, and Glucagon

Sugars are ubiquitous in modern diets. Not only are they extremely prevalent in processed foods as added sugars, often hidden in the ingredient list under a variety of different names, they are also present in numerous whole foods, particularly fruits and vegetables.
 
Being that glucose is such an essential molecule, can sugar consumption really be that bad? Well, like most things, moderation may be key. However, sugar consumption in the average American is massive, estimated at 66lbs of added sugar yearly.

Research concludes that sugars consumed in their original form, such as eating fresh fruit and vegetables (think a whole apple, not apple juice), are generally considered to be far superior to added sugars. Those added sugars, meanwhile, have been linked to countless health issues, including:
  - Fatty liver disease
  - Insulin resistance
  - Cardiovascular disease
  - Type 2 diabetes

But understanding the physiological mechanisms of glucose in the context of health and performance is far more complicated. No discussion would be complete with understanding blood glucose levels, regulatory hormones, and the pathology of diabetes.

In this episode, we explore the physiological mechanisms involved with sugar consumption. Namely, the relationship between sugar, blood glucose levels, and the regulatory hormones insulin and glucagon.

TOPICS:
[2:03] Different dietary sugars
[4:26] Simple vs complex carbs
[6:15] Dangers of excessive sugar consumption
[9:39] Importance of blood glucose management
[13:35] Role of insulin and glucagon
[15:47] Self-testing blood glucose levels
[19:13] How to manage your blood glucose levels
 
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