There’s growing evidence suggesting a link between high blood sugar and cancer. Researchers are specifically focusing on people who have type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by fluctuating blood sugar levels. The link appears strongest with kidney, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers.
High Insulin Levels
The strongest correlation between high blood sugar and cancer involves high insulin levels often associated with diabetes. One study found women with diabetes had a 50 percent higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than women without the condition.
A professional home caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare nutritious meals that promote healthy blood sugar levels. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Embrace In-Home Care, a trusted provider of Senior Care Green Valley. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Prediabetics & High Blood Sugar
Prediabetics may be just as susceptible to an increased risk of developing cancer as diabetics with high blood sugar levels, suggesting a widespread need to control blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 30 million Americans are considered prediabetic.
High Body Fat & High Blood Sugar
High body fat has been associated with some cancers in previous studies. There’s a similar connection between high blood sugar levels and diabetics with a high percentage of body fat. Changes in hormone levels caused by excess body fat may echo changes within the body caused by high blood sugar levels. Cancerous tumors have insulin receptors that likely play a role in how cancer develops.
If your loved one needs help maintaining a healthy weight, a home caregiver can be a wonderful asset. In Green Valley home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Embrace In-Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Controlling Blood Sugar Levels
While more research is necessary to determine the extent of the link between high blood sugar and some cancers, managing glucose levels may decrease that risk. For diabetics and prediabetics, controlling blood sugar levels includes:
- Monitoring blood sugar levels
- Maintaining or adopting a healthy diet (without sugary snacks and drinks)
- Getting regular exercise
High blood sugar levels have been associated with an insulin-like growth factor that’s responsible for cell growth, possibly explaining a reason for the link with certain cancers. While there are other factors that contribute to cancer, the possible connection with high blood sugar provides an added incentive to keep glucose levels in check.
Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional Green Valley respite care, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Embrace In-Home Care. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call (520) 625-2050 today.