Metabolic Health on Ultrahuman Blog

Blood Sugar Levels Chart by Age: What's Normal at Every Life Stage

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 18:07:58 +0000

Your blood sugar is the amount of glucose circulating in your blood right now. For most adults without diabetes, it sits below 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) before eating and rises to under 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L) two hours after a meal. But "normal" looks different at 8 years old, 38, and 78 — and it tightens significantly during pregnancy. This guide walks through the full chart by age, explains why each range exists, and shows how continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data fills the picture a single lab number cannot.

Glutathione Benefits: The Master Antioxidant Explained

Wed, 27 May 2026 15:37:29 +0000

Glutathione is your body’s main internal antioxidant — a small protein made inside every cell that handles oxidative stress, helps the liver clear toxins, and supports immune function. Levels drop with age and chronic illness, and oral glutathione pill absorption varies widely; the more reliable lever is supplying the body with the building blocks it needs to make its own.

This guide walks through what glutathione really does, the benefits with the best evidence behind them, the foods that help, and where the supplement industry overpromises.

Low histamine diet explained and the triggers to be aware of

Fri, 22 May 2026 19:04:30 +0000

Histamine intolerance isn’t an allergy. It’s what happens when the body either produces too much histamine or breaks it down too slowly. Certain foods trigger histamine release, which sets off the cascade of symptoms most people associate with hayfever or an allergic reaction — flushing, hives, headaches, congestion, gut upset, and a racing heart.

A low histamine diet is the standard way to test whether histamine is actually behind your symptoms, by stripping these foods out short-term and reintroducing them systematically.

Is Chipotle healthy? How to create the healthiest combo (based on our CGM data)

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:59:27 +0000

Chipotle is healthier than most fast food when you build the bowl carefully, but it can still drive a meaningful glucose spike if you stack white rice, chips, and a sweet vinaigrette.

According to data from the Ultrahuman Open Glucose Database (OGDb) from Ultrahuman M1 CGM users, a typical Chipotle meal produced an average glucose peak of 132 mg/dL. That is a small spike, with about 75% of users staying in a stable post-meal range, which is better than most fast food.

Why waking up at 3 AM could be your metabolism – and how to change it

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:22:34 +0000

If you’re often waking around 3 AM each night and wondering why, it could be your metabolism.

Metabolism is your body’s system that turns food into fuel so your body can keep running – breathing, thinking, repairing cells, and staying warm – and it even runs while you sleep.

3AM typically coincides with your deepest sleep phase, so consistently waking around this time suggests something is off.

Symogi Effect v Dawn Phenomenon: 3AM wakeup causes

A common cause is a dip in blood glucose, as a byproduct of your metabolism running. When glucose levels drop too low overnight, your body releases cortisol, adrenaline, and glucagon to correct it. And that often jolts you awake in the process. (PMID: 12627733 )

10 cardiovascular health blood test markers explained

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 13:21:32 +0000

Cardiovascular blood tests can reveal more about your long-term heart health than a blood pressure cuff ever could. These tests help detect early warning signs, like poor fat metabolism, inflammation, or genetic risk, that could lead to heart disease, even if you feel perfectly fine.

Ultrahuman’s Blood Vision service offers a comprehensive cardiovascular health check, including 100+ biomarkers that provide a window into your longevity, disease risk, and underlying health.

Glucose and athletic performance: How blood sugar fuels your training

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 11:51:05 +0000

Beyond training plans and sophisticated gear, your fueling strategy can make or break performance. During exercise, your body operates like a high-performance race car, and glucose is the fuel. It powers your brain, muscles, and organs through every stage of exertion.

A balanced intake of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins supports stable glucose levels. But your blood sugar isn’t static, and fluctuations can either support or sabotage your athletic goals.

Let’s explore how glucose functions during exercise, why metabolic flexibility matters, and how to optimize fueling strategies for both performance and recovery.

Menopause and blood sugar explained

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 19:45:19 +0000

Glucose is the fuel that the human body runs on. While glucose metabolism is influenced by a number of genetic and environmental factors, growing evidence suggests that hormonal changes during menopause can throw blood sugar levels out of whack.

We examine what menopause is, the changes the body undergoes, and how that can affect hypoglycemia and blood glucose levels.

Highlights

Falling estrogen levels during menopause can lead to insulin resistance and higher blood sugar.
Visceral fat gain and early menopause both raise the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Diet, exercise, stress management, and hydration help stabilize glucose levels.

What is menopause?

Menopause marks the end of the menstrual cycle and a woman’s reproductive years. A person officially enters menopause when they’ve not had a menstrual period for a year.

The ultimate guide to blood glucose levels – and what they mean

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 21:33:57 +0000

Maintaining stable blood glucose levels is critical for energy, mood, and long-term metabolic health.

If you’re managing prediabetes, aiming to boost athletic performance, or simply trying to avoid the afternoon slump, understanding how your body responds to food, sleep, stress, and exercise is key.

In this guide, we explore why tracking blood sugar matters, what causes glucose levels to rise or fall, and how to optimize them for better performance and disease prevention.

Caffeine and blood glucose – can a coffee blunt a sugar spike?

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 20:58:02 +0000

Caffeine’s effect on blood sugar is often misunderstood. While many rely on coffee for a daily energy boost, it’s often served after dinner. But few consider how it influences glucose regulation.

Research shows that caffeine can temporarily impair insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to higher blood sugar levels. Yet paradoxically, long-term coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.

We explore how caffeine interacts with blood glucose in both the short and long term, based on studies – and what that means for metabolic health.

IIFYM explained: How it works and what to eat

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:36:18 +0000

IIFYM, short for “If It Fits Your Macros,” is a diet that has been gaining attention on social media and in fitness circles, especially among people frustrated with rigid dieting rules.

First popularized by fitness coach Anthony Collova, IIFYM takes a more flexible approach to weight loss by focusing on daily macronutrient targets rather than restricting specific food groups.

Instead of counting calories alone or cutting carbs, the IIFYM method tracks your intake of protein, carbohydrates and fat.

Beware naked carbs: Control glucose by pairing carbs

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:13:18 +0000

If your meal or snack is mostly carbs without other macronutrients, you’re eating a naked carb — and that can have a noticeable impact on your blood sugar.

When carbohydrates aren’t paired with fat, fiber or protein, they’re absorbed and converted to glucose faster.

This rapid rise can lead to a spike in blood sugar, followed by a crash that leaves you tired, hungry, and craving more. Over time, repeated spikes may reduce insulin sensitivity and make blood sugar harder to regulate, leading to metabolic health issues.

How the vagus nerve can boost blood sugar control

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 13:41:31 +0000

Your nervous system plays a massive role in how your body processes energy, handles blood sugar, and responds to stress. At the center of it all is the vagus nerve. (PMID: 10647058 )

The vagus nerve connects your brain to key metabolic organs like the pancreas, liver, gut, and fat tissue. You can read our full guide to the vagus nerve and how it affects heart rate variability .

And it doesn’t just relay information. It actively helps regulate inflammation, glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, and more. When your vagal tone is strong, your metabolic system becomes more resilient. When it’s weak, stress and inflammation take the lead.

Chow mein and health: A glucose heavy hitter

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:08:33 +0000

Chow mein is often served with sugary sauces and plenty of fat, which doesn’t make it a healthy choice.

Most chow mein is made with refined wheat noodles, stir-fried in oil, and loaded with salty or sugary sauces – so it’s not a healthy choice. And it’s not good for glucose either, being high in fast carbs, and often calorie-dense. Add in large portions and a lack of protein or veg, and it’s easy to see why chow mein gets a bad rep.

The falafel wrap trap: High glycemic impact revealed in our data

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:36:22 +0000

Falafel is synonymous with health food, but if you’re watching your blood sugar levels, it can pack an unhealthy surprise.

On paper, chickpeas look like a safe bet with moderate carbs, high fiber, low glycemic index. And falafel, made from ground chickpeas and spices, is a good bet too. But Ultrahuman data shows a serious spike, and that’s down to the wrap itself.

The link between glucose variability and oxidative stress explained

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:11:02 +0000

Rapid blood glucose swings between meals could quietly be stressing your body at the cellular level, and trigger a state called oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress is a state of metabolic imbalance that drives inflammation, impairs recovery, and accelerates aging.

Studies show that glucose spikes over 140 mg/dL are common even in those with “normal” labs. If you’ve ever worn a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), you’ve likely seen sharp rises after meals and reactive dips a few hours later.

Biphasic glucose curve: Multiple spikes after eating explained

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:39:12 +0000

Biphasic glucose spikes after a meal refer to two distinct rises in blood sugar. The first is a quick spike from rapid carbohydrate absorption; the second, slower rise may result from delayed digestion (e.g., due to fat or protein) or continued glucose release from the liver.

It often signals a mixed meal and normal metabolic response, but exaggerated patterns can suggest impaired glucose regulation.

This article was first published in 2021. It has been medically checked and updated with new studies, and for readability.

Patanjali amla juice and glucose: The evidence behind the claims

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 17:31:14 +0000

Amla, or Indian gooseberry, is a long-standing ingredient in traditional medicine, now widely available in bottled juice form. Patanjali’s version is among the most common, promoted for immunity, digestion, and blood sugar support.

But how does it actually affect glucose levels, and what does real-world CGM data reveal?

What the OGDb tells us

According to the Ultrahuman Food Impact Database (OGDb) – a proprietary dataset built from anonymized CGM readings and food logs of Ultrahuman M1 users – Patanjali amla juice causes a low to moderate glucose impact .

Caramel macchiato calories and blood sugar data revealed

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:57:47 +0000

The caramel macchiato may be a café staple, but beneath the coffee lies bad news for your blood sugar.

At first glance, the caramel macchiato doesn’t seem excessive. It combines milk, espresso, vanilla syrup, and caramel drizzle. But in a grande (16 oz) serving, the sugar content pushes 33 grams – most of it from added syrups.

A standard Starbucks grande caramel macchiato clocks in at around 250 kcal, primarily from the milk and syrup.

What is metabolic age? Understand and improve this key health metric

Wed, 28 May 2025 21:36:15 +0000

While your chronological age is simply the number of years you’ve been alive, your metabolic age offers deeper insight into how well your body is functioning behind the scenes.

Metabolic age reflects how efficiently your body burns energy at rest — essentially, the speed and health of your metabolism.

A higher metabolic age suggests your body is burning fewer calories than expected for your age group, which can be linked to lower muscle mass, a slower metabolism, and increased risk of chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.

Carrot and cucumber benefits: Metabolism, glucose and more

Tue, 20 May 2025 17:26:58 +0000

Carrots and cucumbers are healthy vegetables with low glycemic responses, and key nutrients can support metabolic health.

While neither is a miracle glucose-lowering food, both contribute to stable glycemic responses, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic resilience when included regularly in meals.

And they are packed with nutrients that make them great choices for metabolic health. And both carrots and cucumbers can help blunt post-meal glucose spikes when eaten before carbohydrate-rich meals.

7UP Free – how does it affect blood sugar?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:06:38 +0000

If you are managing blood sugar, regular sodas are a non-starter. No debate. But is switching to sugar free 7UP a genuinely smart move, or just a slightly less damaging one?

Let’s look at it properly.

7UP Free and blood glucose

7UP Free contains neither sugar nor meaningful calories. Compared to regular 7UP, which delivers around 36g of sugar per can, it is clearly the better choice for blood glucose control.

Creatine and blood glucose – how it affects your metabolism

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 17:38:02 +0000

Creatine is one of the most popular and well-studied supplements, with strong evidence supporting its benefits for athletic performance, brain health, and bone density, particularly in older adults.

In recent years, researchers have also begun exploring whether creatine could influence glucose metabolism. But while there are interesting studies, the evidence is still limited.

Here’s what we know so far.

Key takeaways

Creatine shows potential to improve glucose control, but the evidence is early and not conclusive.
Creatine itself doesn’t cause blood sugar spikes, but added sugars in smoothies and mixtures can.
People managing blood sugar should use pure creatine monohydrate with water and consult their doctors before starting supplementation.
If you’re looking to improve glucose control, then good habits around cutting carbs, pairing with protein/fats, and careful portion control are more effective than creatine.

How creatine might influence glucose control

Myth busting: Does drinking hot water reduce blood sugar?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:11:20 +0000

Could drinking hot water reduce your blood glucose levels? It’s a pervasive myth for diabetics and those watching their blood sugar, but it’s not strictly true.

However, drinking water and maintaining good hydration are critical to the management of blood glucose. And the science points to some interesting indirect effects when it comes to drinking water and its effect on blood sugar.

In this article, we’ll explore how hot water affects metabolism, its potential role in blood sugar control, and whether it can be a useful tool for maintaining stable glucose levels.

Blood glucose spikes at night explained – and how to prevent them

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:29:48 +0000

It can be frustrating if you’ve noticed blood glucose spikes at night when using a CGM.

Metabolic health trackers – such as the Ultrahuman M1 – encourage users to flatten spikes and reduce variations in blood sugar levels, which are linked to improved health outcomes.

It’s common to see blood sugar rise during sleep – a phenomenon that has specific underlying causes and signatures.

Let’s dive into the causes of blood glucose spikes at night and ways to mitigate them.

Does popcorn spike blood sugar? Nutritional value explained

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 19:33:23 +0000

Popcorn is often celebrated as a healthy snack  — low in calories, high in fiber, and a 100% whole grain. In fact, one serving of popcorn provides about one-third of the whole grains most adolescents and adults need. But what about blood glucose?

Air-popped popcorn, devoid of added butter or salt, is a healthy option, but things are more nuanced for those managing blood sugar levels.

Its effect on blood sugar can vary significantly depending on portion size, individual metabolism, and accompanying foods. We look at the

Does Coke Zero raise blood sugar? Here’s the science

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 19:09:07 +0000

Coke Zero is a sugar-free soda marketed as a healthier alternative to regular Coca‑Cola – and it’s designed to have fewer calories and not to raise blood glucose levels.

It uses artificial sweeteners — primarily aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace‑K) — to mimic the taste of the original Coca-Cola. These sweeteners contain no calories and don’t produce a glycemic spike as sugar.

But how do they affect blood sugar levels, and are there any metabolic consequences?

How to combat insulin sensitivity?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 13:07:25 +0000

Walk after a meal

Walking for at least 10-15 minutes after a meal is shown to reduce your glucose spikes post a meal. Since walking relies on aerobic metabolism, which draws upon glucose in combination with fatty acids and protein in the body, you burn glucose at a moderate rate to curb a spike in glucose production without triggering its production further.

Exercise before a meal

Moderate to High-Intensity workouts before a meal have been shown to result in a lower glucose response. With regular exercise, your body becomes more insulin-sensitive, which means that your glucose response will be better than usual.

What is HbA1c?

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 01:31:26 +0000

HbA1c is what’s known as glycated haemoglobin. This is something that’s made when the glucose (sugar) in your body sticks to your red blood cells. Your body can’t use the sugar properly, so more of it sticks to your blood cells and builds up in your blood.

HbA1c ranges

According to American Diabetes Association , these are the HbA1c ranges -

4% to 5.6% - This is the normal range of HbA1c.
5.7% to 6.4% - This indicates you have prediabetes and a higher chance of getting diabetes. Consult a doctor if you have estimated HbA1c in this range.
6.5% or higher - This indicates that you have diabetes. Consult a doctor if you have estimated HbA1c in this range.

Understanding your metabolic score

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 00:15:27 +0000

What does the metabolic score mean?

Metabolic Score (ranging from a scale of 0-100) is an indicator of your overall metabolic health. It is a factor in your food consumption, activities performed, stress levels and quality of sleep.

How is it calculated?

It depends on three major factors:

Glucose Variability
Average Glucose
Time in Target

Glucose variability

Understanding Variability: Glucose Variability is the ups and downs you see in your glucose graph.
Significance: A low variability indicates that you have a stable glucose trend, a sign of good metabolic health. A high variability indicates that your body is subjected to high glucose spikes and crashes, which may cause post-meal lethargy.
Improving Variability: A balanced diet will give you a flat glucose line without spikes and crashes and result in a better metabolic score.

Average glucose

Calculation Method: Average Glucose is calculated from all the glucose data points for that day.
Importance: Lower average glucose in the target range is good for your metabolic health.
Tips for Maintenance: Exercising well and eating food with a lower glycemic response will help maintain lower average glucose, thereby improving your metabolic score.

Time in target

Definition: Time in Target is the duration for which your glucose levels stay within the target range (70-110 mg/dL).
Monitoring Levels: Notice when your glucose levels go out of this target range.
Tips for Regulation: Taking a walk after meals (when your glucose levels exceed the maximum target) and eating a light healthy snack (when your glucose levels fall enough to make you weak) are proven ways to regulate your glucose levels.
Maximizing Time in Target: Maintaining your glucose levels within the target range throughout the day will help you maximize your metabolic score.

Note that at the start of your metabolic transformation journey, you might observe low metabolic scores. This is expected and okay. It is when you adjust your lifestyle choices in response to your metabolic score and build your metabolic awareness that you will start seeing higher metabolic scores.

Ultrahuman M1: A Game-Changer for Metabolic Health in India

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:56:59 +0000

As per the Indian Council of Medical Research – India Diabetes (ICMR INDIAB) study published in 2023, there are over 100 million cases of diabetes in India, as compared to 37.3 million in the United States of America. The cornerstone of type 2 diabetes management is a healthy diet, increased physical activity, not smoking and maintaining a healthy body weight. Oral medication and insulin are also frequently prescribed to help control blood glucose levels.

Metabolic Testing: Know What It Is, Its Importance, And Its Types.

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 10:31:00 +0000

What is Metabolism?

Even while at rest, every human being is kept alive by a chemical process in each cell of the body called metabolism. Metabolism is the term used to describe all chemical reactions that maintain the living state of an organism.

It can be divided into two categories: catabolism, which is the breakdown of molecules to obtain energy, and anabolism, which is the synthesis of all compounds needed by the cells.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Metabolic Health

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 18:39:00 +0000

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex health condition that affects multiple body systems and bodily functions. CFS is difficult to diagnose, given that symptoms vary widely. However, extreme fatigue that interferes with proper day-to-day functioning, pain, sensitivity, and a general sense of feeling unwell are distinguishing features .

Previously, this was considered a controversial diagnosis because of the lack of clarity on its causes. Even though CFS is widely accepted as a biological illness, there continues to be a lack of proper understanding of the condition. This is attributed to varying clinical diagnostic definitions, a wide range of presenting symptoms, no single underlying cause, and the absence of a laboratory test for diagnosis.

Can You Boost Your Metabolism If You Have Hypothyroidism?

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 17:08:00 +0000

Imagine you’re at a camp. There is a huge bonfire going, and everyone is warm. In an hour or so, the fire starts burning down, and you need more firewood. However, what’s left are just a couple of sticks which aren’t enough to keep the fire going, and within minutes, it extinguishes and what’s left behind are just the embers.

Our metabolism is just like this bonfire. The thyroid gland provides the hormones, the firewood, to keep our metabolism burning. However, when there aren’t enough hormones, our metabolism starts ‘burning’ less and less. This slowing down of our metabolism is called hypothyroidism.

Metabolic Health And Lung Function

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 16:49:00 +0000

The lungs are a part of our respiratory system which enables us to breathe. Oxygen is inhaled and carbon dioxide is exhaled during the process of respiration.

A lung function test or Pulmonary function testing is an evaluation done to check the respiratory health of an individual. One of the most basic tests is Spirometry. The test basically measures the amount of air that our lungs can hold and how forcefully we can empty the air from the lungs. This test acts as a screening tool for various respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions that affect respiration. Spirometry is also used to monitor the lung condition and measure the progress of any treatment if given.

How Are Your Joints And Metabolic Health Connected?

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 14:13:00 +0000

A lot of us experience joint stiffness as early as in our 20s. In our 20s and even 30s, it is not something we think much about. However, as we age, as this stiffness becomes more common, it becomes an area of concern. In fact, most of us don’t focus on joint health until our joints become problematic.

But joints, like any other body part, deserve meticulous care and attention even years before they gradually start giving us trouble. Contrary to popular belief, joint pains aren’t caused by the overuse of obesity alone. Many of these issues arise at an early stage and as a result of a multitude of factors that science has only scratched the surface of. So let’s understand what contributes to joint degradation, the role hormones and metabolic health play in joint health and what you can do to keep your joints healthy.

Does Glycemic Variability Matter?

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 12:25:00 +0000

The level of glucose in the blood at any given point is an essential indicator of health and well-being. Most people know that higher blood sugar levels over time can cause health complications such as diabetes, while lower levels bring their own dangers in terms of limited energy. But another factor that comes into play is the degree to which the glucose level fluctuates over time and what that indicates.

The Role Of Blood Sugar Regulation In Kidney Function

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:26:00 +0000

The kidneys play an important role not only in removing waste from the body but are also responsible for the regulation of water, salts and minerals—such as sodium, calcium, phosphorus and potassium—in your blood. These small organs are about the size of a fist and produce hormones that help make red blood cells, control blood pressure and keep bones strong. When kidneys don’t function well, toxins and excess fluid can build up in the body, which can lead to serious and even life-threatening health impairments. While there are several causes of chronic kidney disease, both high and low levels of blood sugar can trigger the onset of these dysfunctions. Blood sugar control and maintaining glucose homeostasis is critical in preventing these illnesses.

Men’s Sexual Health & Metabolic Health

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:05:00 +0000

Sexual health can impact a person’s emotional, mental and physical well-being. In fact, research suggests that life expectancy for sexually active men is higher. However, globally, about 31% men experience sexual dysfunctions. Sexual dysfunctions may exist among men of different ages. But they are more common in older men above the age of 50 or young men with poor metabolic health. The rising incidence of erectile dysfunction among men can be attributed to the surging occurrence of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease and depression. The good news is that sexual dysfunctions are treatable, and in most cases, they can be corrected with dietary and lifestyle changes. Read on to know more.

7 Tips To Keep Your Glucose Levels In Check During A Workday

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:59:00 +0000

You know those busier-than-usual office days, where you don’t have a second to breathe, let alone eat?

Skipping meals becomes a routine, and you’re surviving on limitless cups of black coffee to keep you going.

You know you’re in the wrong here, but you think you’ll get by until that deadline is met—and then one day, you suddenly faint right in front of everyone in the office.

When you visit your doctor, she tells you that your blood glucose levels are way too low and that you need to eat regularly to avoid further complications like diabetes. Sounds simple enough, sure. However, making time to chalk out a disciplined routine while juggling a mountain of workload is a task.

12 Natural Ways To Reduce High Blood Sugar Levels

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:44:00 +0000

Blood sugar is fuel for the body and the brain. But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can be a precursor of prediabetes. Elevated blood glucose levels that are not within the ideal range can affect non-diabetics too by affecting your ability to heal and causing severe damage to your kidneys and blood vessels.

Highlights

Blood sugar is a biomarker for your metabolic health and optimising it will help manage your physical and mental performance,
Exercise is a good way to convert glucose into energy, increased insulin sensitivity allows your cells to effectively utilise the available sugar in your bloodstream,
Studies indicate that eating a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet reduces blood sugar levels over the long term and prevents sudden glucose spikes.

Blood sugar is a marker of your metabolic health. Optimising blood sugar levels is also important in managing your peak physical and mental performance.

Why Should You Monitor Blood Oxygen Levels?

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 10:41:00 +0000

After the onset of the pandemic, blood oxygen level turned into a metric that people tracked feverishly and the pulse oximeter became a staple tool in our medical kits. When we’re short of breath, we tend to immediately worry about our lungs and if they have enough air. However, the 25 trillion red blood cells coursing through our bodies are just as important when it comes to oxygen availability. Let’s take a closer look at why our blood oxygen level is so essential and why we should track it.

The Biological Concept Of Hormesis

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:45:00 +0000

Hormesis is defined as a phenomenon in which a harmful substance gives stimulating and beneficial effects to living organisms when the quantity of the harmful substance is small (Sakai, 2006).

Highlights

Hormesis is a phenomenon that is described to be beneficial or has a stimulatory effect caused by exposure to low doses of an agent that tends to be toxic at high levels,
Hormesis activates in the cells as a result of phytonutrients found in food and botanicals,
There are a number of ways to strategically stress your body that include short, intermittent bursts of certain stressors that trigger cellular processes that enhance overall health.

What is Hormesis?

Hormesis is a dose-response phenomenon, characterized by a low-dose response that is opposite in effect to that seen at high doses. Hormetic type responses have been reported in the literature since the late-nineteenth century.

Does A Vegan Diet Boost Metabolism?

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:40:00 +0000

What do Venus Williams; a multiple grand slam-winning tennis player, Paul McCartney; the English singer-songwriter of the Beatles fame and Leonardo DiCaprio; a talented Academy Award-winning actor have in common? They are all passionate advocates of the vegan diet. It’s a diet that’s become mainstream over the years, and according to the most recent United Nations estimates, approximately 79 million people in the world follow it.

Highlights

A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs,
The diet is increasingly becoming popular for its numerous health benefits,
Various research lead to the conclusion that a vegan diet may boost metabolism.

What is a vegan diet?

The term ‘vegan’ was coined in 1944 by Donald Watson, co-founder of The Vegan Society. A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs.

A Primer On Fatty Liver Disease

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 06:26:00 +0000

The liver is the second largest organ in our body. It also performs varied functions. Primarily, it serves a protective function, acting as a sieve in filtering toxic elements from the bloodstream. It further aids in digestion by extracting nutrients from the food and drinks we consume. Particularly, the liver makes proteins and stores iron for us. We also rely on our livers to aid digestion by making bile. (1)

Time in Range Tracking Glucose Levels (CGM) Helps to Improve Your Health

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 11:53:00 +0000

For a long time, the HbA1c test, conducted in a lab, was hailed as the gold standard for measuring blood sugar. There’s a new metric in town that can help to track glucose levels and overcome some of the limitations of the former parameter. It’s called Time in Range.

This measure originates from the world of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices and can deliver live data about blood sugar to users. It offers several advantages - like keeping track of high and low blood sugar (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia), seeing one’s cause-and-effect patterns through behaviour, and its impact on glucose. Seeing data for blood sugar impact our daily actions helps us make behaviour changes as they occur. It can nudge us into maintaining steady blood sugar levels.

The interplay of glucose metabolism and breathing

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 09:58:00 +0000

Understanding blood glucose metabolism is important to comprehend the connection between breathing and glucose spikes. Blood sugar spikes are caused when a simple sugar known as glucose builds up in your bloodstream.

The food you eat is broken down into glucose. It is the key nutrient that powers our brain, muscles, and other organs. For glucose to be unlocked as a fuel, it needs to be inside our cells.

Metabolism Basics: Eight ways to improve & it affects the body

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 09:07:00 +0000

Did you know that a hummingbird has the highest metabolic rate among all animals with a backbone. Research at John Hopkins Medicine suggests that with a wing buzzing beat of 60 to 80 beats per second, these birds require the human equivalent of almost 150,000 calories every day. Darting from flower to flower, they consume a dangerously high quantity of sugary nectar. Their high blood sugar levels would be regarded as diabetic in humans but thanks to their high-speed flights, they don’t suffer the biological pitfalls that humans generally would – obesity and diabetes. The extraordinary metabolism of hummingbirds serves as a minefield of studies for understanding the process in humans. So, what is metabolism?

How to improve your metabolic health?

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 05:19:00 +0000

There have been numerous papers that have been published on ‘metabolic health’. You may have read the term across the internet and in various research papers, but are still not quite sure of what the term means. Let’s start by understanding what metabolism means.

Highlights

Metabolic health factors directly relate to a person’s risk for insulin resistance, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke,
A marker of good metabolic health is having ideal blood glucose levels. Glucose is an essential fuel for the cells in the body when it’s present at normal levels,
There has been growing evidence about how sleep loss and sleep disorders cause disparities in metabolism.

What is Metabolism?

According to news-medical , metabolism is a word used to describe all chemical reactions involved in maintaining the living state of the cells and the organism. It can be further divided into two categories:

7 Intriguing Facts About Body Temperature

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 14:08:00 +0000

Today’s consumer is hit with a dizzying array of options when it comes to measuring health indicators. We’re seeing the development of increasingly sophisticated technologies to measure everything from blood sugar levels to the presence of different species of microorganisms in our gut.

However, an important indicator that is often overlooked is the humble metric of body temperature. Temperature, especially when taken into consideration along with other indicators, can yield important insights that may alert us when things aren’t quite right, aiding us on our journeys towards better health.

Answering FAQs on the Ultrahuman M1

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:53:00 +0000

Does my device need to be NFC enabled to pair the sensor?

💡 Yes! 💯 It is absolutely essential that your phoneis NFC enabled**.** If not, you will not be able to pair the sensor with your phone.

What’s the best time to put on the sensor?

💡 We’ve noticed that installing the sensor in a fasted state (for 4 hours or more, or as soon as you rise in the morning 🌞) improves the baseline accuracy of the sensor.

The Metabolic Health crisis

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 09:14:00 +0000

When we think of metabolism and metabolic health, our minds immediately rush to the concept of weight. We traditionally look at weight as a marker of metabolism and assume that if we are in the correct body mass index (BMI) range, our health is top-notch. However, metabolism and metabolic health are so much more than that.

Our food choices, genes, microbiome, sleep, exercise, age and sex all shape our metabolism and metabolic health. To understand the depth of metabolic health and the metabolic health crisis, it is first imperative to understand the meaning of and difference between metabolism, metabolic health and metabolic syndrome.

What is Metabolic Fitness?

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 11:44:00 +0000

When someone is able to lose weight easily or does not gain weight as quickly as other people with similar patterns of food consumption and exercise, etc., we tend to say that they have a ‘better metabolism’. By doing so, we wrongly assume that metabolism only means burning calories fast. In fact, metabolism is our body’s life force, and it is imperative to keep our metabolic health and fitness optimum to ensure longevity and overall well-being. Let’s see what metabolism really means and how to embark on a fulfilling metabolic fitness journey.

Blood glucose level rise and crash guide

Sat, 21 May 2022 14:57:00 +0000

Blood sugar levels fluctuate all day long. Patterns of rises and crashes can offer valuable and actionable insights into your metabolic health.

In this piece, we delve into the causes behind these glucose highs and lows, why your blood sugar surges steeply after you eat, why it drops after alcohol intake, and more.

Firstly, it’s important to understand the different ways in which the hormone, insulin, behaves in the body and the process of glucose metabolism.

How CGM Can Be Your Weight Loss Biohack

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 13:01:00 +0000

Whether we’re conscious of it or not, we’ve all subscribed to diet culture’s repeatedly reinforced notion that furious calorie-counting, step-tracking and switching from one fad diet to the next is the way to fat-burning and killer abs. But we’re here to ruin the get-thin-quick party with science: the human body is a lot more complex than that, and healthy weight loss involves a deeper understanding of how hormonal and biochemical pathways factor into weight loss and weight gain in the body. Let’s take a closer look at how the body maintains a balance of energy and how it all ties into weight loss before we get to what does work and how continuous glucose monitoring fits into this puzzle.

Beginner’s guide to the Ultrahuman M1: Part 2

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 13:06:00 +0000

In the first part of this series, we explained how metabolic health is intimately tied to Ultrahuman M1 and its metrics.

In this part, let’s understand how it pushes you to act on the insights it provides about your glucose biomarkers.

According to the nudge theory, positive reinforcements and actionable insights prompt behavioural changes.

So, are you experiencing this transformation too while tracking your glucose levels?

Let’s get acquainted with the nudges.

The beginner’s guide to insulin resistance and prediabetes

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 12:14:00 +0000

If you’ve ever come across the terms insulin resistance and prediabetes, and you’re wondering what they are, or how the two are connected, you’re on the right page. We’ll be taking a deep dive into what both concepts mean and will break down everything from the causes, risk factors and symptoms for prediabetes and type-2 diabetes as well as their diagnosis. But first let’s understand what insulin resistance is.

Beginner’s guide to the Ultrahuman M1: Part 1

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 11:51:00 +0000

Metabolic health can be defined as the body’s ability to use food efficiently for fueling, growth and repair, as well as storing energy for periods of lesser availability of food.

Metabolism is the process by which your body uses food to carry out the above activities. Being aware of how these processes work for each person in their bodies can provide an insight into how food, exercise and sleep affect one’s health and longevity

How is your metabolic score calculated and what does it mean?

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 10:45:00 +0000

Metabolism is the process by which the body converts all the food and drinks you consume into energy.

Metabolic health, on the other hand, is described as having ideal levels of blood sugar, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference, without using medication.

Gaining a perspective on your well-being through the lens of metabolic health makes for a sustainable approach.

One of the easiest methods of measuring your metabolic health is by calculating your metabolic score through the CGM device.

The underrated Cellular detox you should know about

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 14:45:00 +0000

The term autophagy comes from two Greek words, ‘auto’ and ‘phagy’, which mean ‘self’ and ‘feed on’ respectively. In a nutshell, it translates into our cells cannibalising their damaged parts in order to recycle the cellular debris and release basic building blocks and energy for consumption.

Autophagy is a basic physiological function in which our cells feed on themselves for various reasons.

Highlights

Autophagy is a basic physiological function in which our cells feed on themselves for various reasons,
Autophagy is a part of the metabolic process that enables cells to transform food into a form of energy that cells can use to increase and divide,
The main benefit of autophagy is its support to the body in times of stress when the body is deficient in oxygen and nutrients.

Contrary to what it may sound like, autophagy is crucial for our health and wellness. It’s cellular housekeeping, much like garbage disposal and a recycling system for the body.

Glucose monitoring: Interstitial fluid vs Blood Glucose

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 04:05:00 +0000

Glucose is critical to the healthy functioning of our bodies. Glucose levels naturally oscillate through the course of the day, but it’s the extent of the fluctuation that matters. High glucose variability, or unsteady blood sugar levels, are associated with metabolic dysfunction, diabetes and cardiovascular complications. Both high and low blood glucose levels can be detrimental in the long run. Our glucose levels function as a stream of information that offers insights into our overall health.

5 Ways blood glucose affects sleep

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:39:00 +0000

It is an established fact that sleep plays a critical role in our physical health. The benefits of sleep include everything from improved brain functioning and better mood to enhanced athletic abilities and body-weight maintenance.

With that being said, it is not enough to simply lie down and close your eyes at night. It is actually the quality of sleep that is of utmost importance. In order to reap the best benefits of sleep, you should strive for undisturbed, restorative sleep. There is still much to discover regarding sleep quality; however, many factors have been found to be linked with it.

The Correlation Between Cancer and Blood Sugar

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 10:07:00 +0000

Introduction

“Cancer cells love glucose,” says Rama Natarajan, chair of the Department of Diabetes Complications and Metabolism and an expert in molecular oncology (comprehensive cancer centre, City of Hope). This assertion lends credence to the Warburg effect, identified by Nobel Laureate Otto Warburg and considered a hallmark of cancer. According to this effect, cancer cells devour and metabolize glucose at almost 200 times the usual rate. (19)

The connection between sugar and cancer has been a subject of interest in medical research for a long time. Recent evidence suggests that there is indeed a correlation between hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and some types of cancer. (1)

How to monitor blood glucose levels & fast efficiently

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 10:43:00 +0000

Introduction

Fasting is the buzzword in the nutrition realm but it has been practised by people around the world for centuries. It refers to a willing restriction or restraint on how we consume calories, whether as food or drink and can be immensely beneficial for metabolism, blood sugar levels as well as cardiovascular health.

How can one monitor glucose?

Blood sugar can be observed by checking one’s glucose levels and can be tracked by doing a finger prick test or through a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). CGMs are devices that provide live data to users about their blood sugar levels. Typically, such devices monitor interstitial glucose levels, that is, the glucose levels from the fluids between cells, through a sensor.

How to Monitor Blood Glucose Levels & Fast Efficiently

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 10:40:00 +0000

Introduction

How can one monitor glucose?

How does Testosterone affect Blood Glucose levels?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 05:12:00 +0000

Testosterone and blood glucose levels go hand in hand in your body. Studies reveal that men with low testosterone are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes at later stages in life. Beyond its role as a sex hormone, the regulation of testosterone levels has been connected with other health conditions like metabolic syndrome and being overweight. The scientific community is trying to unravel the ways in which testosterone impacts the overall well-being of men.

Impact Of Blood Glucose Levels On Mood

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 04:05:00 +0000

Glucose is the fuel of the brain and it can be reflective of our stress, irritability and anxiety amid other emotional states. The graph of our glycemic ups and downs can serve as a mood board of sorts. Let’s understand how glucose is metabolised in our body before we explore the connection between blood sugar and mood.

Highlights

The interaction between glucagon and blood sugar ensures stable blood glucose levels in the body and the brain,
Research suggests a correlation between higher glycemic variability and lower quality of life and negative moods,
Dehydration has a bigger influence on blood glucose levels than most people realise. Even a little dehydration can cause blood glucose levels to spike.

Glucose Metabolism

Insulin is a hormone created by the pancreas that controls the amount of glucose in a person’s bloodstream at any given moment. It helps store glucose in the liver, fat and muscles, and regulates the body’s metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. After eating, blood glucose levels rise. Insulin released by the pancreas helps the cells to absorb blood glucose for energy and storage.

Benefits of monitoring glucose levels regularly

Sat, 11 Dec 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Glucose is a major source of energy for the cells and one of the most important molecules in the body. Disruptions in glucose levels or the way in which the body processes glucose can lead to various health problems since it is linked to the most dominant bodily functions. Glucose regulation is tied to metabolic health. Monitoring glucose levels can offer insights into our health as well as have benefits in terms of implementing changes in lifestyle, diet, or exercise.

The impact of adrenaline on blood glucose

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 05:17:00 +0000

Adrenaline (also known as epinephrine) is a hormone released during stress that raises blood sugar levels. It does this by stimulating the liver to break down glycogen into glucose (glycogenolysis) and release it into the bloodstream, providing quick energy for a “fight or flight” response.

The human body is designed to constantly return to its equilibrium, or ideal state, known as homeostasis.

This is done with the help of hormones present in the body’s endocrine system, which regulates the functioning of the body to bring it back to its original, balanced state.

Guide to Allergies: What causes And How it Affects Metabolic Health?

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 11:04:00 +0000

Allergies can be incredibly debilitating, ranging from severe reactions which can result in hospitalizations to mild reactions which can impair functions of our everyday lives. What’s more, they can also affect our metabolic health.

What is an Allergy?

Allergies occur when the body reacts to foreign substances in the environment, which typically do not elicit a reaction in most people.

Our immune system produces special fighters called antibodies. When an allergic reaction occurs, the immune system produces antibodies that identify a specific substance (called an allergen) as harmful, even if it isn’t.

Metabolic Encephalopathies

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 14:48:00 +0000

The brain is the control centre of the human body. Our brains contain a network of approximately 100 billion neurons linked to each other by trillions of connections called synapses. In conjunction with the spinal cord, commonly referred to as the ‘information highway’, it forms the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is responsible for transporting messages to and from all parts of the body.

The brain processes our thoughts and information about our environment and controls voluntary and involuntary functions. To perform this heavy lifting, itn needs an uninterrupted supply of nutrients to feed billions of cells that make up the CNS. In fact, our brains comprise just 2% body mass, but consume 20% of cellular oxygen and receive 15% cardiac output. Glucose is the major oxidative fuel of the brain. Thus, proper brain function is closely tied to metabolism and metabolic health.

Activity fueling score: Everything you need to know

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 14:25:00 +0000

The human body provides energy through a combination of carbohydrates and fat-based fuels. High-intensity workouts rely dominantly on carb-based sources while the body depends more on stored fat during long, slow burn exercise.

Highlights

The fueling score signifies how well-fueled you were during your activity window and ranges from 0 to 10 on a scale. The higher your fueling score, the more optimally fueled you were during your activity,
There are three Glucose Zones are: Overfueled [> 140 mg/dL] ,Optimal zones [80-140 mg/dL] (Superset of High & Low intensity) & Underfueled [< 80 mg/dL],
When the figures are high for the fueling score and slope, it’s an indication that you were able to maintain appropriate glucose levels during your workout.

Pre-exercise glucose intake and suitable feeding strategies ensure that your body is equipped with the right amount of glucose to sustain your dream performance through the session.

Metabolic Resistance Training vs Metabolic Conditioning: Ultimate Guide

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 17:15:00 +0000

Metabolic workouts are popular nowadays, but before someone starts performing one, it is important to revisit what the term metabolism actually means, understand what metabolic resistance training is, how it differs from metabolic conditioning, how they both work, their advantages and disadvantages and how you can start incorporating them to improve your overall fitness.

How do I get the energy to workout/ resistance training?

Metabolism occurs in every cell in the body. It is a series of chemical processes in each cell transforming the calories we eat into fuel to keep us alive. These processes sustain life, everyday functioning and include breaking down food and drink into energy and building or repairing our bodies.

Metabolic Flexibility & Metabolic Health

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 15:19:00 +0000

Introduction

Metabolic flexibility is the body’s ability to process fuel from either source of energy—fat or glucose. When this ability is impaired from poor health or genes, it can cause metabolic inflexibility, a condition typically characterised by the burning of glucose over fats. To measure if fat is being burned, it is prudent to observe glucose and ketone levels. Metabolic flexibility also supports athletic performance, and can be a precondition to diabetes, insulin resistance or obesity. It can also be genetically inherited. Metabolic flexibility can be improved by fasting (which nudges the body to burn fat, consuming more protein and maintaining good health through effective and frequent exercise.

What is Non-Diabetic Hyperglycemia?

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:20:00 +0000

INTRODUCTION

The blood sugar levels of all individuals fluctuate and cause tremendous changes in our bodies. Understanding what causes these, specifically in non-diabetic people, can help us improve our metabolic health. In this article, we dive deeper into the causes of high blood glucose levels, why they surge after you eat and what can be done to prevent it.

Before we do that, it’s imperative to understand the different ways in which the hormone, insulin, behaves in the body and the process of glucose metabolism.

Ultimate guide on the Menstrual cycle and metabolic Health

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 11:52:00 +0000

Menstrual Cycle

The first day of your period marks the start of your menstrual cycle or menstruation and happens almost monthly when your next period starts. Throughout this process, your body produces different kinds and amounts of chemicals called hormones to prepare for pregnancy.

These fluctuating hormone levels can cause menstrual symptoms or what’s commonly known as PMS. The menstrual cycle changes with age.

There are four stages of the menstrual cycle . A normal cycle can last anywhere from 24-38 days. When you’re menstruating, your body sheds the monthly build-up of the uterus lining (womb).

Does Dehydration affect one's Metabolism?

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 10:52:00 +0000

Water makes up over half of your body weight 50 to 60 percent in women and 60 to 65 percent in men. Since water is involved in almost every biological function in the body, it is no surprise that consuming sufficient amounts of water is the first step in ensuring that your metabolism works at an optimal level.

Let’s understand the role of cellular hydration in our metabolic health.

Metabolic phenotypes in Obesity

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 10:12:00 +0000

According to WHO , overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. A body mass index (BMI) over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is regarded obese. The issue has grown to epidemic proportions, with over 4 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese in 2017, according to the global burden of disease. Rates of overweight and obesity continue to grow in adults and children. From 1975 to 2016, the prevalence of overweight or obese children and adolescents aged 5–19 years increased more than four-fold from 4% to 18% globally. Body mass index (BMI) is a calculation that takes a person’s weight and height into account to measure body size. In adults, obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30.0 or more , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Obesity is associated with a higher risk for serious diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Nocturnal Hypoglycemia: Symptoms and prevention

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 05:45:00 +0000

Here’s a scenario we would like you to assume. Your alarm didn’t go off and you woke up late. You skipped your breakfast and rushed to your workplace. As soon as you entered the office you got stuck in a long meeting that went past the lunch hour. It is now 4 p.m. and suddenly you start feeling a little bit dizzy. You haven’t eaten anything since your dinner last night and your body is starving. What you are experiencing is hypoglycemia. Luckily for you, a colleague offers you a protein bar and upon eating it you may have felt much better.

Serotonin Imbalance & Metabolic Health

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:38:00 +0000

Serotonin is hailed as the ‘happy hormone.’ It enables communication of our brain cells with other nervous system cells and modulates our mood. It is conducive to our feeling of well-being and also plays a role in regulating metabolic health. Serotonin falls under a category of messengers called neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitters: Chemical Messengers

Neurotransmitters are often referred to as the body’s chemical messengers. They are the molecules used by the nervous system to transmit messages between neurons, or from neurons to muscles. Communication between two neurons happens in the synaptic cleft (the small gap between the synapses of neurons). Here, electrical signals that have travelled along the axon are briefly converted into chemical ones through the release of neurotransmitters, causing a specific response in the receiving neuron.

Immunometabolism 101: What is it and why is it important to you?

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 15:30:00 +0000

Immunometabolism examines the interplay between immunology and metabolism, our life force. In this article, we’re going to take a look at what immunometabolism is and why it’s important to you. But before we start to peel back the layers on that, let’s go over some basic concepts first that’ll make understanding immunometabolism a lot easier.

For starters, what is your immunity?

Immunity refers to your body’s ability to fight off toxins that can lead to disease. The parameters of immunity consist of various factors in your blood and in your cells. Every single cell that makes up your immune system comes from bone marrow. Your cells flow throughout your bloodstream, can be found in locations like your spleen or lymph nodes, or disseminated throughout other parts of your body. There are three main types of immunity.

9 Common myths about Metabolic Health

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 10:35:00 +0000

Metabolic health and metabolism are mired in myths that obscure relevant facts. In this piece, we bust some myths to help you understand metabolism better.

What is Metabolism?

Metabolism refers to a series of chemical processes in each cell which transform the calories we eat into fuel to keep us alive. These processes sustain life and everyday functioning and include breaking down food and drink to energy and building or repairing our bodies. (Read our blog on deconstructing the basics of metabolism here ).

Metabolism, Inflammation, & How They Interact

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 13:06:00 +0000

What is metabolism?

Metabolism is a series of life-sustaining chemical processes in each cell transforming the calories we eat into fuel to keep us alive.

Simply put, metabolism takes place when the calories for dietary consumption combine with oxygen to release energy. (9) In addition, it extracts complementary elements, called endogenous metabolites to use these nutrients as energy effectively. For example, metabolism turns dietary fibre into short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), an essential component for liver function. (8)

What does it mean to speed up your metabolism?

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 12:31:00 +0000

What is metabolism?

Metabolism is commonly defined as “the sum total of chemical reactions in living cells that keep an organism alive.” It often refers to the processes by which organisms extract energy and nutrients from food, break down sugars and fats to extract energy, synthesize proteins, and regulate the flow of this information.

Metabolic rate, or Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is a measurement of how much energy (calories) the body burns while performing basic functions when you are at complete rest—for instance, while you’re laying in bed or watching television. Basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the amount of energy per unit of time a person needs to keep the body functioning. These two measurements are often used interchangeably, but they are slightly different. This means that metabolism is how quickly your body burns food for fuel. But it also helps your body to carry out various essential functions—storing and burning fat, regulating sugar levels and keeping your neurons healthy. The resting metabolic rate accounts for about 60-75% of the daily calorie expenditure by individuals. For men, the average BMR range is between 1600 to 2000 kCals per day (or 7100 kilojoules per day), while for women it is between 1300 to 1550 kCals per day (or 5900 kilojoules per day). It is influenced by several factors, such as weight, height, age, gender, etc., but generally declines by 1-2% each year as you get older.

Metabolic Health And The Brain

Sat, 09 Oct 2021 10:45:00 +0000

What is metabolism?

Our holistic wellbeing is deeply reliant on our metabolic health. Let’s explore the function of our metabolism before we look at metabolic health in relation to our brain specifically.

Metabolism is defined as all chemical reactions involved in maintaining living cells and organisms. In other words, metabolism involves the processing of the energy your body needs to breathe, circulate blood, grow, repair cells, and everything else it does to survive.

Relationship Between Heart Health & Insulin Resistance

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 07:24:00 +0000

Introduction

Over the course of an average lifetime, our heart beats about 2.5 billion times. Its continuous and tireless work makes it tremendously important for us to stay heart-healthy. The muscular pump, that is the heart, is responsible for blood circulation throughout the body. It comprises systemic circulation - to and from the body, and pulmonary circulation - to and from the lungs. It is also responsible for the removal of waste products of metabolism. (1) By extension, heart health is tied to metabolic health.

Does Serotonin play a leading role in metabolism?

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 05:48:00 +0000

Serotonin, known as one of the happy hormones, plays an important role in regulating mood, digestion, appetite, sleep, learning ability, and memory. This mood-stabilizing hormone also functions as a neurotransmitter in the nervous system, transmitting signals from one area of the brain to another. If the brain produces too much serotonin, it could lead to excessive nerve cell activity. Too little serotonin, on the other hand, can lead to depression and anxiety.

Can Intermittent Fasting Improve Metabolic Health?

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 12:29:00 +0000

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a pattern of time-restricted eating. When practising IF, one confines food intake during certain hours and consumes food in designated eating windows. It does not require a person to give up any particular food group. According to Harvard Health, studies in humans have shown that IF is safe and effective.

Considering the fact that many individuals find abstaining from food difficult, the period of fasting is key. It makes IF a more realistic, sustainable, and promising approach for dealing with obesity, as well as for better metabolic health.