A new study found that high blood in people with blood sugar concerns can weaken their immune system against viral infections. Scientists already knew that people with blood sugar concerns are more susceptible to more frequent and serious viral infections. This gives insight into the underlying season and shows why healthy blood sugar levels are essential to good health.
When a body encounters a virus, it produces antiviral T cells to prevent infection. However, the new study found that people with elevated blood sugar have poor-performing T cells that don’t function as they should.
The study found that people with blood sugar concerns and normal blood sugar levels had healthy T cells. Having blood sugar concerns doesn’t harm the immune system; it’s having high blood sugar levels.
“These research findings stress the importance of keeping blood glucose levels under control. A strong immune system is crucial for alleviating the health care burden… and for protecting lives,” said Prof. Heidi Ling Guangsheng, one of the study’s corresponding authors.
In addition to helping to reduce the number of people who end up in the hospital, it enables you to have a happy and healthier holiday season! We are in the prime season for colds, flu and other viral infections. Maintaining healthy blood sugar is just one of the important steps to aiding your immune system.
To help safeguard your immune system, eat healthy foods with vitamins, minerals and fiber to aid your gut. And maintain a sleep schedule that allows your body to stay fit and function well.
Avoiding stress is also a big part of immune health. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol can impair white blood cell production. That leaves you more vulnerable to infection. The holidays can be a stressful time. Finding ways to cut stress out of your day can help your health! One member of our team has already made her Christmas meal. It is already in the freezer. It’s ready to be defrosted and popped in the oven. There were two reasons for this. First, she can spend more time with her guests on Christmas day. Second, her mother won’t look over her shoulder and say, “Oh, is that how you do it? Interesting, that’s not how I would have done it.”
Taking care of yourself can help keep your blood sugar normal and your holidays fun. That way, you won’t be coughing and sneezing on New Year’s Day!”
