adamkontor / Pixabay – Blood sugar impacts the aging process.

Blood sugar levels rise in response to the carbohydrates and sugars we eat. Insulin is secreted by the pancreas to control glucose levels. Glucose is stored as glycogen and used to fuel our bodies. Excess glucose is converted to triglycerides and stored as fat. What happens when you don’t eat a lot of carbohydrates?

Low blood sugar levels stimulate the hypothalamus to produce and release hormones that increase human growth hormone (HGH). Increased levels of HGH increase our longevity. Low blood sugar levels prompt the liver to produce IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor). IGF-1 is a hormone similar to insulin in structure, but not function.

jboelhower / Pixabay – Regarding longevity, intense exercise is similar to cutting back on sugar.

Insulin is responsible for moving glucose into and out of our cells. IGF-1 does not transport glucose into cells but supports cellular division and growth. It also plays a role in cell repair. People with low levels of IGF-1 have a higher risk of heart attack. IGF-1 levels also increase with intense exercise. It modulates the release of glucose to the cells from the liver and facilitates the growth of new muscle.

Insulin, HGH, and IGF-1 work together to control the body’s carbohydrate metabolism. Sustained high blood sugar levels can cause many health problems, such as atherosclerosis. glaucoma, neuropathy (poor nerve function), infections, heart attacks, hormone imbalances, weight change, and even death.

If you want to live a longer, healthier life, cut back on the carbohydrates and sugars.