traditional medicine

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Symptoms-of-hyperglycemia

Symptoms of hyperglycemia

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Hyperglycemia is characterized by abnormally high blood glucose levels. Some common symptoms associated with this condition include:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Frequent urination</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Excessive thirst</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Increased hunger</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fatigue</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Blurred vision</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Slow-healing wounds</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weight loss</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dry mouth and dry skin</li></ol>

Possible-causes-of-hyperglycemia

Possible causes of hyperglycemia

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Some diseases and conditions that can cause hyperglycemia are:

Type-1-diabetes

Type 1 diabetes

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&nbsp;An autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Consult an endocrinologist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Type-2-diabetes

Type 2 diabetes

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A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, leading to high blood sugar levels. Endocrinologists specialize in diagnosing and treating this condition.

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Gestational-diabetes

Gestational diabetes

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A form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, usually resolving after childbirth. Seek advice from an obstetrician or endocrinologist.

Cushing's-syndrome

Cushing's syndrome

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&nbsp;A hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol. Consult an endocrinologist or an internal medicine specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Pancreatitis

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&nbsp;Inflammation of the pancreas that can disrupt insulin production. Gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and managing this condition.

Side-effects-of-medical-drugs

Side effects of medical drugs

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Some medications can cause hyperglycemia as a side effect:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Corticosteroids: Often prescribed for inflammation, these drugs can raise blood sugar levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thiazide diuretics: Used to treat high blood pressure, these medications can increase glucose levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Beta-blockers: Another class of drugs for high blood pressure, which can also cause blood sugar spikes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Statins: Cholesterol-lowering drugs that may contribute to elevated blood glucose.</li></ul>

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Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

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Several herbs and natural remedies can help manage blood glucose levels:

Cinnamon-verum-(Cinnamomum-verum)

Cinnamon verum  (Cinnamomum verum)

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Known for its blood sugar-lowering properties, cinnamon also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Gymnema-sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre

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This herb has been used in traditional medicine to reduce blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.

Fenugreek-(Trigonella-foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

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&nbsp;Rich in fiber and antioxidants, fenugreek seeds can help lower blood sugar levels and improve overall glucose metabolism.

Bitter-melon-(Momordica-charantia)

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)

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This fruit has insulin-like properties that can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Lifestyle-changes

Lifestyle changes

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To prevent or manage hyperglycemia, consider the following lifestyle modifications:

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Maintain a healthy diet, focusing on whole foods and minimizing processed sugars.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Engage in regular physical activity to help regulate blood glucose levels.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monitor your blood sugar regularly and adjust your treatment plan as needed.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Manage stress, as it can contribute to blood sugar fluctuations.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Get sufficient sleep to support overall health and wellbeing.</li></ol>

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Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Below are ten frequently asked questions that are not covered in the article:

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Q: How do I know if my blood glucose levels are too high?

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A: Regular blood sugar monitoring can help you track your levels. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on target ranges.

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Q: Can hyperglycemia be reversed?

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A: In some cases, lifestyle changes and proper medical care can help manage or reverse hyperglycemia. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.

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Q: Can stress cause high blood sugar levels?

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A: Yes, stress can lead to increased cortisol levels, which can raise blood sugar levels. Managing stress is essential for overall health and blood sugar control.

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Q: How does exercise affect blood glucose levels?

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A: Exercise can help lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity and promoting glucose uptake by muscle cells.

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Q: What is a healthy diet for managing hyperglycemia?

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A: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while minimizing processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, can help manage blood sugar levels.

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Q: Can weight loss help with hyperglycemia?

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A: Yes, losing weight (if you are overweight) can improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels.

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Q: How often should I check my blood glucose levels?

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A: The frequency of monitoring depends on individual circumstances and your healthcare provider's recommendations. For some, it may be multiple times a day, while others may need to check less frequently.

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Q: Can alcohol consumption affect blood sugar levels?

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A: Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to blood sugar fluctuations. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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Q: Can hyperglycemia lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

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A: Yes, prolonged high blood glucose levels, especially in people with type 1 diabetes, can result in DKA, a life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical care if you suspect DKA.

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Q: Are there any long-term complications associated with uncontrolled hyperglycemia?

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A: Uncontrolled hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, vision problems, and an increased risk of infections.

Hyperglycemia, or high blood glucose, is a condition that can result from various diseases and medical conditions, such as diabetes and Cushing's syndrome. Certain medications, like corticosteroids and beta-blockers, can also contribute to elevated blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and fatigue. To manage this condition, you can explore herbal and natural treatments like cinnamon and fenugreek, and make lifestyle changes like adopting a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. Consult a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or a gastroenterologist, to determine the appropriate course of action for your specific situation.

High Blood Glucose: Understanding Hyperglycemia and Its Consequences

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What-are-medicinal-mushrooms?

What are medicinal mushrooms? 

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Medical mushrooms are edible macroscopic mushrooms that can be eaten safely to provide health benefits. One of the main benefits of consumption is for the immune system by improving basic immune responses. There are many types of medicinal mushrooms that can be harvested and are available for safe consumption in the form of dietary supplements, but not only.&nbsp;

What-are-medicinal-mushrooms?_0_2

Medical immunity support mushrooms are part of the traditional practices found in various cultures around the world, such as Greek, Chinese and Roman cultures. The long and similar history of mushrooms serves as evidence of their use as a preventive protective agent and a tool in the fight against infectious diseases and various types of cancer.

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Modern scientists have studied the benefits of these types of mushrooms and found that in addition to being a source of sufficient nutrients, they also contain bioactive compounds that have the potential to help the immune system and provide additional immune support. 1

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The most important are polysaccharides, structural components of the cell wall of fungi. Polysaccharides have a strong ability to carry biological information. Specifically, they have antitumor, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antidiabetic action. The best known and most abundant are α- and β-glucans. Heteroglycans, peptidoglycans and polysaccharide-protein complexes also contribute to biological activity. They are primarily responsible for immunomodulatory effects due to their ability to bind to specific receptors on the cell wall and stimulate specific immune responses.&nbsp; 2

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Medical mushrooms are also used in cancer treatment as biological response modifiers (BRMs), useful for treating cancer, reducing the side effects of therapies, and improving a patient's quality of life. &nbsp; 3

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Another class of compounds that are very important for their bioactivity are terpenes, characterized by units of five carbon isoprene atoms and whose addition of functional groups produces the terpenoids. They modulate the immune system by stimulating the expression of genes encoding proteins involved in the immune response, but also have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor properties.

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Mushrooms are rich in proteins that have cytotoxic and anti-cancer properties. Some of them are known for their characteristic and pronounced immunomodulatory effect. These proteins are referred to as fungal immunomodulatory proteins, the mechanisms of action of which can be diverse.&nbsp;

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Other fungal metabolites with bioactivity are phenolic compounds, antioxidants with different mechanisms of action (oxygen uptake, inactivation of metals, free radical inhibition, peroxidase decomposition), lacases (copper-containing oxidases) and fatty acids.

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The pharmacological activities of medicinal fungi are primarily detected by in vitro assays, usually accompanied or followed by in vivo studies on animal models, which together reveal the great potential of a single fungus, an extract of it or a chemical compound.&nbsp;

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On the other hand, there are a small number of clinical studies conducted on humans and published in peer-reviewed literature. Clinical research is needed to assess the efficacy of medicinal mushrooms in the complex system of the human body, but an assessment of their safety in different age groups and conditions is also needed.

Top-5-most-powerful-medicinal-mushrooms

Top 5 most powerful medicinal mushrooms 

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It has been reported in various animal studies and a limited number of in vitro analyses that medicinal mushrooms have numerous pharmacological actions, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-allergic and prebiotic properties.&nbsp;

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Next we will look at the most interesting medicinal mushrooms with time-proven properties.

Chaga-(Inonotus-obliquus)

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) 

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Chaga is found in cold climates and looks like a large black mass growing on the side of a tree. This parasitic mushroom can grow to impressive sizes. Russian and Eastern European cultures use it in folk medicine for its immunity-boosting properties.

Chaga-(Inonotus-obliquus)_1_2

Chemical analysis of chaga in the scientific literature reveals several compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenes and polyphenols that may be responsible for most of the mentioned therapeutic effects. Several compounds found in chaga mushrooms may lead to their beneficial effects, including antioxidant polyphenols, as well as betulin and betulinic acid, which have been linked to anti-cancer effects. &nbsp; Lanostans such as inotodiol are also being investigated for their cytotoxic effects. 5

Ganoderma-lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum 

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If Chaga&nbsp; is the King of Mushrooms, then Reishi is the Queen (also called Ganoderma lingzhi). This beautiful mushroom has a shiny red, fan-shaped look. A lover of temperate forests, Reishi thrives on most hardwoods and fruit trees. This mushroom is great for supporting sleep and relaxation without creating drowsiness. It has been used for centuries in Chinese and Japanese culture to maintain overall health and well-being. Reishi has a bitter taste and is therefore often mixed with other bitter ingredients such as coffee or chocolate.

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The health effects of the reishi mushroom may result from its ability to regulate the composition of the microbiota, as the polysaccharides found in reishi demonstrate prebiotic effects and may increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the host.&nbsp;

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Reishi also promotes well-being during seasonal changes and offers support to help you stay physically active. Reishi is also known as the "10,000-year-old mushroom" and is traditionally used for longevity.&nbsp;

Turkey-tail-(Trametes-versicolor)

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) 

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The next favorite is a mushroom, which is often overlooked and again has many names - Colorful Trammetes, Colorful Dust, Colorful Powder Mushroom and others. The turkey tail has amazing health and healing properties. If you take the time to do further research, you'll be amazed at some of the benefits of this small tree sponge. And once you understand what it looks like, you'll see it pop up everywhere as you enjoy your forest walks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The immunomodulatory properties of this fungus are due to two protein-bound polysaccharides present in the fungal extract: the polysaccharide peptide (PSP), extracted from the deep-layer cultured mycelium of the fungal strain COV-1 and used most extensively in China, and glycoprotein PSK, derived from the CM101 strain and used most extensively in Japan. They are mainly composed of β-glucans and are among the most studied biocompounds of mushrooms.

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In traditional medicine, turkey tail fungi are used therapeutically for fungal infections, cancer and acquired immune deficiency syndrome.&nbsp;

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Modern research on animal models of breast cancer suggests that C. versicolor exerts an antitumor and antimetastatic effect, indicating that it may reduce the risk of developing secondary cancers. Polysaccharide-K (PSK), a patented turkey-tail formula, is approved in Japan as an adjunct cancer treatment. 4&nbsp;

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A 2007 meta-analysis of over 8,000 patients conducted by Kyoto Higher School of Medicine in Japan found that PSK in combination with chemotherapy increased patients' survival rates after gastric cancer resection. 6

Shiitake-(Lentinula-edodes)

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) 

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Shiitake is a delicious edible mushroom native to East Asia. This popular mushroom is perhaps better known for its flavor than for its benefits. This mushroom gets its name from the Japanese words "shii" tree, where these mushrooms first grew, and "take" means mushroom. Among its many advantages, shiitake is an antiviral, antibacterial agent and has antitumor properties. For example, lentinan, which is a glucan extracted from shiitake, is currently used as an additional treatment for tumors, especially in China and Japan.&nbsp;

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Lentinan can also act on the activation of inflammasomes, components of the innate immune system responsible for triggering inflammatory responses. Components of shiitake have demonstrated inhibitory effects on lung carcinoma LAP0927 cell lines and colorectal carcinoma CT26 cell line in various studies. 7

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At the heart of the current use of lentinan as an adjuvant in oncological therapies are also several preclinical studies in which polysaccharide has been tested together with substances used in chemotherapy treatment.&nbsp;

Lion's-mane-(Hericium-erinaceus)

Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) 

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Last but not least is the wonderful mushroom Lion's Mane. There are many strange nicknames, including a mushroom with a monkey's head, a mushroom with a bearded tooth, a satyr's beard, a bearded hedgehog mushroom and many other equally entertaining ones. Considered a gourmet mushroom with a delicate taste of seafood, Lion's Mane has become a world leader in functional mushrooms. Its unique benefits include supporting brain function and memory, immunity, and overcoming anxiety and depression.

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This medicinal mushroom also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunostimulating, antidiabetic, antimicrobial and antihyperglycemic properties, although its most common use is for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive impairments. 8

How-to-consume-medicinal-mushrooms?

How to consume medicinal mushrooms? 

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Medicinal mushrooms are available as dietary supplements in several forms, including as liquid extracts, powders, and capsules. Culinary mushrooms, such as maitake and shiitake, can be used in dishes such as soups, stews, french fries, pasta and omelettes.

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Tea is also often made from whole fresh or dried mushrooms. Tea can be made by soaking three to ten grams of mushrooms in hot water for about five to ten minutes. Mushrooms that are woody and dry, such as reishi or chaga, may need to be soaked for longer or boiled. Because they have a strong taste, some people prefer to add a sweetener such as honey or maple syrup to tea.

That was a lot of information, wasn't it? This is because the kingdom of fungi is one of the most diverse groups of organisms in the world. Fungi existed before any other terrestrial plant or animal and spent billions of years learning how to adapt to any threat from the environment. They play the important role of ecological digesters while absorbing food from the plant matter from which they live. As a result, mushrooms such as lion's mane, reishi, chaga, cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake and maitake offer numerous health benefits.