What would cause a blood sugar spike?


Quick Answer

A blood sugar spike is caused by eating high-glycemic-index foods, according to Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Source. Eating many high-glycemic-index foods can increase the risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

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Full Answer

The glycemic index organizes carbohydrates on a scale between zero and 100 based on their effect on blood sugar levels after consumption, according to Harvard School of Public Health. Foods that have higher glycemic levels include grains that are highly processed or refined, low-fiber foods, ripe fruits and vegetables, and foods low in fat or acid. Lower-glycemic-index foods include whole and unprocessed grains, high-fiber foods, unripe fruits and vegetables, and foods containing fat or acid. There is strong evidence for the correlation between higher dietary glycemic index, greater risk for type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. Type 2 diabetes generally develops over time due to insulin resistance and eventual cessation of insulin production.

Continually high sugar levels act like gradual poison for the diabetic individual, according to WebMD. High sugar levels decrease the pancreas’ ability to make insulin, causing the pancreas to overcompensate. The pancreas becomes damaged over time. This causes additional health complications, such as kidney disease, heart attacks, nerve damage, strokes and other serious concerns.

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