Your blood sugar is like a silent engine that keeps your body going. When it works smoothly, you have stable energy, good mood and control of appetite. When it fluctuates uncontrollably, the result can be fatigue, cravings, irritability -- and, in the long run, serious health problems.

What is blood sugar, really? Blood sugar (glucose) is the fuel your cells use to produce energy. After you eat, blood sugar rises, and the body releases insulin to help the glucose enter the cells. The problem occurs when blood sugar fluctuates too abruptly and too often — stressing the body and over time can lead to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, weight gain and chronic inflammation.

How unstable blood sugar affects you:

• Energy dive after meals
• Uncontrolled cravings for sugar or fast carbohydrates
• Headaches and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased storage of fat, especially around the abdomen

The benefits of stable blood sugar:

• Smooth energy throughout the day
• Better sleep and recovery
• Less cravings
• Healthier weight regulation
• Reduced risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease

How to get better blood sugar control:

1. Build your meals around fiber, protein and healthy fats— Fiber slows the absorption of glucose into the blood.
2. Avoid fast carbohydrates alone— Eat bread, pasta and fruit along with fat or protein.
3. Move after meals— A 10-minute walk after eating can significantly reduce blood sugar rise [! 2]].
4. Eat in the right orderStart your meal with vegetables, then proteins and fats, and finally carbohydrates.
5. Have a stable circadian rhythmSleep affects insulin sensitivity. Uneven sleep = poorer blood sugar control.

Blood sugar stability isn't just for those with diabetes -- it's a tool for better quality of life for everyone.

Do you want to optimize your blood sugar and understand how your body responds? Livity gives you insights, measurements and personalized recommendations — before small imbalances become big problems.