Cardiologist Explains Why Regular Glucose Spikes are Harmful

Cardiologist Dr Alok Chopra has warned against allowing sharp rises in blood glucose to become a regular cycle, saying repeated spikes can lead to frequent insulin responses and may affect metabolic health over time. Glucose spikes typically occur after eating foods rich in rapidly digested carbohydrates, particularly those with a high glycemic index. While blood sugar naturally rises after meals, repeated sharp increases can place greater demands on the body’s insulin response.

Explaining the process, Dr Chopra said blood glucose rises quickly after consuming high-glycemic foods, prompting insulin to bring the levels down. According to him, the subsequent drop in blood sugar can leave a person feeling hungry again, potentially encouraging another round of eating and another insulin response. If this pattern continues regularly, the body may repeatedly produce insulin in response to frequent increases in blood glucose.

Dr Chopra said recurring glucose spikes may be associated with several short-term effects, including increased hunger, food cravings, fatigue and sleepiness. He also mentioned other symptoms such as feeling unusually hot, night sweats and urinary infections. However, individual symptoms can have many possible causes, and experiencing them does not by itself establish that glucose spikes are responsible. Persistent or concerning symptoms should therefore be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.

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The cardiologist also cautioned about possible long-term consequences of repeatedly elevated insulin demand and poor metabolic health. He linked prolonged problems with glucose regulation to an increased risk of diabetes and mentioned conditions including faster ageing, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and depression. These claims should be understood in the broader context of metabolic health, as the relationship between blood glucose, insulin resistance and different chronic diseases can be complex and influenced by several factors.

To help reduce sharp glucose rises, Dr Chopra recommended paying attention to both food choices and the order in which foods are eaten. He advised reducing the intake of sugary foods and giving greater emphasis to fibre, particularly leafy vegetables, followed by protein and healthy fats. Starchy and sugary foods, he suggested, should come later in the meal and be consumed when appropriate. A meal containing fibre and protein can generally slow digestion and help moderate the rise in blood glucose.

The advice highlights the importance of overall dietary patterns rather than focusing on individual glucose readings or eliminating carbohydrates altogether. Choosing minimally processed foods, including adequate fibre and protein, and limiting foods high in added sugars can support better metabolic health. People with diabetes, prediabetes or other medical conditions affecting blood glucose should follow advice from their healthcare professionals before making significant dietary changes.

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