Is 87 a Good Blood Sugar Level? A Functional Medicine Perspective

Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is essential for overall health, influencing everything from energy levels to hormonal balance and cognitive function. For many, a blood sugar reading of 87 might seem like just another number on a glucose meter. But what does this value really mean? Is 87 a good blood sugar level? Let’s explore this question through the lens of functional medicine, which emphasizes individual optimal health rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar, or glucose, is the primary energy source for our body’s cells. It’s essential for fueling our brain, muscles, and all bodily functions. Blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day, especially after eating or exercising, or during periods of stress. A “normal” fasting blood sugar level is typically defined between 70 and 99 mg/dL, according to conventional standards.

When we discuss blood sugar levels, it’s important to differentiate between fasting blood sugar and postprandial (after eating) blood sugar. A fasting blood sugar reading of 87 mg/dL is usually good, since it’s within the normal range and is generally considered healthy. However, functional medicine dives deeper to assess whether this number truly reflects optimal health for each individual.

Is 87 a Good Blood Sugar Level?

An 87 mg/dL blood sugar reading is often considered good, particularly when taken in a fasting state. In fact, many experts in the field of metabolic health would argue that this value reflects a well-balanced glucose metabolism. It’s not too low to suggest hypoglycemia and not too high to indicate insulin resistance or prediabetes.

From a functional medicine perspective, however, the goal isn’t just to fall within a “normal” range but to achieve optimal levels that support long-term health and vitality. A fasting blood sugar of 87 is often seen as good because it suggests that your body is effectively managing glucose and insulin levels, which is crucial for preventing chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even neurodegenerative disorders. But there’s more to being healthy than just the absence of a chronic condition.

The Importance of Context in Blood Sugar Readings

While 87 mg/dL is generally a good blood sugar number, it’s essential to understand the broader context of blood sugar regulation. Functional medicine takes a holistic view, considering various factors that influence glucose levels, such as the following:

1. Dietary Habits: The types of foods you eat, your macronutrient balance, and the timing of your meals all play significant roles in blood sugar regulation. A nutrient-dense diet rich in whole foods, fiber, healthy fats, and lean proteins can help maintain steady glucose levels.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, helping your cells more effectively use glucose for energy. Both aerobic exercise and resistance training are beneficial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
3. Stress Levels: Chronic stress can elevate blood sugar through the release of cortisol, a hormone that increases glucose production. Managing stress through mindfulness practices, meditation, and adequate sleep is crucial.
4. Hormonal Balance: Hormones such as insulin, cortisol, and thyroid hormones all interact to regulate blood sugar. Hormonal imbalances can disrupt glucose metabolism, making it crucial to assess your overall hormonal health.
5. Gut Health: The gut microbiome significantly influences metabolic health. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut bacteria, can contribute to insulin resistance and poor blood sugar control. Probiotics, prebiotics, and a diet rich in diverse plant foods support a healthy gut.

Functional Medicine Approach to Blood Sugar Optimization

Even if your blood sugar reads 87 and you feel good, functional medicine looks beyond the number to assess overall metabolic health and identify areas for optimization. Here’s how a functional medicine approach can help ensure that your blood sugar stays in the optimal range:

1. Comprehensive Testing: Functional medicine practitioners often recommend tests beyond standard fasting glucose, such as Hemoglobin A1c (a three-month average of blood sugar levels), fasting insulin, and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). These tests provide a more complete picture of your body’s glucose handling and can reveal early signs of insulin resistance or other metabolic issues.
2. Personalized Nutrition: Instead of generic dietary advice, functional medicine tailors nutrition recommendations based on individual needs, preferences, and metabolic responses. This might involve adjusting carbohydrate intake, exploring potential food sensitivities, or incorporating specific nutrients known to support blood sugar regulation, such as magnesium, chromium, and alpha-lipoic acid.
3. Lifestyle Modifications: Movement, sleep, and stress management are pillars of blood sugar regulation. A personalized exercise plan, stress-reducing techniques such as yoga or breathwork, and sleep optimization strategies can all help maintain a healthy glucose balance.
4. Addressing Root Causes: Functional medicine seeks to identify and address root causes of blood sugar dysregulation. Whether it’s chronic inflammation, poor gut health, or hormone imbalances, targeting these issues can improve blood sugar control and overall metabolic health.

What If My Blood Sugar Is Not Optimal?

If your blood sugar isn’t where you want it to be, functional medicine provides a roadmap for improvement. Implementing personalized dietary changes, enhancing physical activity, reducing stress, and supporting gut and hormonal health can all contribute to more balanced glucose levels. Remember, blood sugar management is a journey, and small, consistent steps can make a significant impact on your health.

Experience Vital Health Solutions in Conroe, TX

So, is 87 a good blood sugar level? In most cases, yes, it reflects a well-functioning metabolism and effective glucose management. However, it’s important to consider this number within the broader context of your overall health. A good blood sugar level of 87 only scratches the surface of your health.

Functional medicine’s individualized approach ensures that you’re not just “normal” but truly optimized for long-term health. At Vital Health Solutions, we believe that unlocking your highest health potential is possible and probable. We’re here to provide the highest quality of healthcare and help you live the most vibrant life imaginable. Contact us today to get started!