Glucose & Metabolic
Plain-English guides to the glucose & metabolic markers we measure and what your results mean, written to inform the conversation with your practitioner.
Reading results in this group
Your brain relies almost exclusively on glucose for fuel. Low levels can affect thinking, coordination, and if severe, consciousness.
Shakiness, sweating, confusion, or extreme hunger?
Possible reasons:
- Fasting too long or skipping meals
- Medication effect (especially diabetes medications, some blood pressure drugs)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Intense exercise without adequate fuel
- Hormonal factors (adrenal or pituitary issues - rare)
Next steps: If recurring, discuss with your GP. They may adjust medications or investigate hormonal causes.
Symptoms typically ease within 15 minutes of consuming fast-acting carbohydrates. If episodes recur, investigation may be needed.
Your body is effectively managing blood sugar levels, supporting stable energy and metabolic health.
Possible reasons:
- Effective insulin production and cellular glucose uptake
Next steps: Maintain healthy lifestyle - regular meals, physical activity, stress management.
Elevated blood sugar over time affects your blood vessels, nerves, kidneys, eyes, and heart. Early intervention may help reduce risk of progression to type 2 diabetes.
Energy crashes after eating? Increased thirst? Frequent urination?
Possible reasons:
- Insulin resistance (cells don't respond well to insulin)
- Insufficient insulin production (pre-diabetes or diabetes)
- Dietary factors (high refined carbohydrate intake)
- Physical inactivity
- Stress (cortisol elevates blood sugar)
- Certain medications (steroids, some antipsychotics)
Next steps: Discuss with your GP. Depending on severity, they may recommend lifestyle changes, diabetes prevention programme, or medication. HbA1c testing provides better long-term picture.
Blood sugar control typically improves within 6-8 weeks with lifestyle changes. Full metabolic improvement takes 3-6 months.
Medication Considerations
These medications may affect your results:
- Metformin: Metformin lowers blood glucose levels.
- Corticosteroids: Steroids can raise blood glucose levels.
Test your glucose & metabolic
NATA-accredited testing. Results in 2–5 days. No GP referral required.
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