How Does Sugar Affect Blood Pressure?

Glycemic Index

Sugar's effects on blood sugar start with a table called the glycemic index. The glycemic index is a list of foods that shows how much each particular food will impact the glucose levels of the bloodstream. Glucose is simple sugar that activates the pancreas to increase the production of insulin. Once insulin enters the bloodstream, the amount of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream is reduced to a healthier level.

Insulin Resistance

The more sugar that the body takes in over the needed levels to produce energy, the greater chance you will have of developing a disorder called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the cells no longer react to insulin, creating an excess of glucose in the bloodstream.

Magnesium

Not only does insulin help in the removal of excess glucose from the bloodstream, it helps in the storage of magnesium. When cells become resistant to insulin, they have a more difficult time storing magnesium as well. Magnesium is an important substance in that it helps block the constriction of the blood vessels by regulating the movement of calcium into the muscles.

Blood Pressure

Without the necessary magnesium in the cells, the blood vessels in the body become more constricted. Constriction of the blood vessels limits the flow of blood through them. As the heart continues to pump the same volume of blood through the constricted blood vessels, the pressure inside the blood vessels increase, resulting in a higher blood pressure reading.