Updated: 11/9/23
Are you concerned about managing your blood sugar levels and avoiding the risks associated with hyperglycemia? Well, you’re not alone. Hyperglycemia is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. But don’t worry – there are steps you can take to help manage it and reduce its related health issues. Our team here at Bulksupplements.com has created this blog post to provide practical advice on how to reduce the symptoms of hyperglycemia through lifestyle changes – as well as which supplements may be worth considering in order to support better blood sugar management. So read on, learn more about this important issue, and start taking back control of your health today!
What is Hyperglycemia?
Hyperglycemia occurs when there are excess sugar levels of glucose in the blood. Hyperglycemia is often associated with diabetes and it’s a primary symptom. However, it can happen to anyone, even those who do not have diabetes. The condition develops when the body does not produce enough insulin or when the receptors in the body do not respond to it. As a result, the glucose remains in the blood, which raises the blood sugar levels.
Glucose comes from food, including fruit, milk, rice, bread and potatoes. In fact, carbohydrates like potatoes are significant sources of glucose. After ingestion, the body breaks carbohydrates down into glucose and then transports it to various organs and tissues through the bloodstream.
The Role of Insulin
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate glucose levels in the blood. But its influence extends far beyond that. Insulin helps to facilitate the absorption and storage of nutrients in cells throughout your body, which is why it’s essential for your overall health. Insulin acts as a switch, signaling to your cells to store glucose, a type of sugar that is a primary source of energy for your body. The insulin hormone’s primary role is to keep your blood sugar level in the healthy range, thereby protecting the cells in your body from damage or stress.
Did you know that the quality of your diet can affect your insulin sensitivity? Certain foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, nuts, and fruits, can improve insulin sensitivity. On the other hand, sugary and refined foods can wreak havoc on your insulin levels and cause health problems over time. Monitoring your diet and making healthy choices can go a long way in improving your insulin sensitivity and keeping your blood sugar level under control.
Hyperglycemia develops when patients with diabetes fail to control their blood glucose levels either through medication or insulin injections. There are two main types of hyperglycemia: fasting and reactive.
Symptoms of Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia is often asymptomatic, but it may produce symptoms that the patient may notice by self-monitoring or a physician may notice them during regular exams. One symptom is glucose levels above 130 mg/dL before meals or 180 mg/dL after meals. Common signs of hyperglycemia include:
Excessive Thirst and Urination
Constant thirst and the need to urinate frequently might be early signs of hyperglycemia. High blood sugar causes kidneys to work harder, thereby producing more urine. This leads to frequent urges to urinate and excessive thirst. If you’re experiencing these symptoms regularly, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked.
Fatigue and Weakness
Consistent fatigue and weakness can also be an indication of high blood sugar levels. When there is too much glucose in the bloodstream, it becomes difficult for the body to convert it into energy. As a result, the person might feel tired and weak. This symptom is often overlooked as it is a common effect of our busy routines.
Irritability and Mood Swings
Hyperglycemia can also lead to emotional symptoms, such as irritability and mood swings. Changes in blood sugar levels can interrupt the brain’s functions, leading to extreme moodiness and irritability. These symptoms might often lead to anxiety and depression.
Blurred Vision
High blood sugar levels can cause changes in the shape of the eye’s lens, leading to blurred vision. This symptom usually occurs when the blood sugar levels have been high for a prolonged period. As the condition progresses, it can lead to serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.
Skin Infections
Prolonged high blood sugar levels can cause conditions such as decreased blood flow, nerve damage, weakened immune system and reduced production of natural moisturizers. This can cause the skin to dry, crack, or even turn red and swell. This increases the risk of skin infections, such as fungal infections or bacterial infections, especially on the feet. These skin infections can go unnoticed and untreated, leading to more severe medical issues later on.
Dry Mouth
When the sugar level in your blood is high, it can cause your mouth to feel dry. This is because the sugar in your bloodstream sucks the moisture out of your salivary glands, leaving your mouth feeling dry and uncomfortable.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Another common sign of hyperglycemia is vaginal yeast infections. High blood sugar levels create an environment where yeast can thrive, leading to an overgrowth of yeast in the vaginal area.
Slow Healing
Hyperglycemia can also affect your body’s ability to heal. High blood sugar levels can damage your nerves and blood vessels, which can slow down the healing process. If you notice that cuts and bruises are taking longer to heal, talk to your healthcare provider.
In early stages of the condition, patients may also experience blurred vision, fatigue and headaches. Left untreated, hyperglycemia may cause toxic acids called ketones to build up in the blood and urine. Without early treatment, it can progress into later stages that may cause various additional symptoms including weakness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and confusion. The patient may also notice shortness of breath, fruity smelling breath and dry mouth. Patients with diabetes should self-monitor regularly in order to control blood glucose levels before they reach dangerous levels.
Can Hyperglycemia Cause Headaches?
One of the most common symptoms of hyperglycemia is headaches. High blood sugar levels can cause inflammation in the blood vessels around the brain, leading to headaches. In addition, hyperglycemia can affect the nerves that control the blood vessels, which can also contribute to headaches. If you experience frequent headaches, it’s important to get your blood sugar levels checked by your doctor.
Can Hyperglycemia Cause Seizures?
Hyperglycemia is a medical term that refers to high blood sugar levels that occur when your body is not producing enough insulin or when it cannot use insulin effectively. When blood sugar levels rise too high, they can cause damage to the body’s organs and nerves. This nerve damage or neuropathy can trigger seizures in people with diabetes. The seizure threshold is lowered when your blood glucose levels rise above the recommended levels, which puts you at risk of having a seizure.
People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at risk of having seizures due to the consequences of their high blood glucose levels. Hyperglycemia can lead to nerve damage, which is also known as diabetic neuropathy, making the body more susceptible to seizures. Additionally, electrolyte fluctuations can occur when blood sugar rises, which can lead to seizures. Semi-coma or lactic acidosis can cause seizures in Type-2 diabetes. People with both types of diabetes are at risk of the various types of neuropathies that could cause seizures when untreated.
Causes of Hyperglycemia
Many patients experience an increase in blood sugar levels after eating meals rich in glucose. However, if a patient’s blood glucose increases significantly on a consistent basis, it may indicate hyperglycemia. Patients with this condition have difficulty producing or using insulin properly. Lack of exercise may increase blood sugar to a point that may interfere with insulin efficiency because the body is overwhelmed by the amount of glucose in the blood. Lack of exercise causes more glucose than the body can process. In addition, stress may cause hormones to release that keep blood sugar at excessively high levels. Also, health conditions or illnesses such as the flu may cause stress, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
Overindulging in Carbohydrates
Hyperglycemia can occur when you consume too many carbohydrates, especially refined carbs. When you eat carbs, your body breaks them down into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. The pancreas then releases insulin, which helps transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells to be used for energy. When you eat too many carbs, your body produces more insulin to cope with the workload, and this causes your blood sugar levels to spike. The result is hyperglycemia. To avoid this problem, consume carbohydrates in moderation and choose complex carbs over refined ones.
Lack of Exercise
Exercise is vital for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Physical activity helps the body use insulin more effectively, which brings down blood sugar. It also helps burn excess glucose stored in muscles and the liver. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, leads to insulin resistance, which means your body struggles to use insulin correctly. This leads to raised blood sugar levels and hyperglycemia. To prevent this issue, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Stress
Stress causes the body to produce hormones that increase blood sugar levels. When you are under stress, your body releases cortisol and glucagon, which stimulate the liver to produce more glucose. Over time, chronically elevated cortisol levels can lead to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises.
Medications
Certain medications can cause hyperglycemia. For example, some steroids, beta-blockers, and diuretics can interfere with insulin production and lead to raised blood sugar levels. If you are on medication and experiencing hyperglycemia, speak to your doctor. They may need to adjust your medication or prescribe an alternative.
Illness or Infection:
Illness or infection can cause hyperglycemia in people with or without diabetes. When your body is fighting an infection, it produces hormones that raise blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, illness or infection can also affect your glucose control. Ensure that you keep a good track of your glucose level and visit your doctor regularly.
Genetics
Some people are more predisposed to hyperglycemia due to genetics. Family history of diabetes, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome can increase the risk of hyperglycemia. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular screening can help prevent hyperglycemia.
Lack of Insulin Production or Resistance
The most common cause of hyperglycemia is the lack of insulin production or insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that allows glucose to enter our cells to be used as energy. Without enough insulin or if the body becomes resistant to insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, causing hyperglycemia. The risk of insulin resistance increases with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
The Dawn Phenomenon
One of the most common causes of hyperglycemia among diabetic patients is the dawn phenomenon. As the name suggests, the patient’s blood sugar is usually higher in the morning when there are higher hormone levels in the blood, including cortisol, glucagon and epinephrine. The hormones stimulate glucose release into the bloodstream. The dawn phenomenon may occur a few hours the patient goes to sleep.
The dawn phenomenon does not necessarily cause high blood glucose levels in the morning specifically. The patient’s blood sugar may be higher in the morning if they consume carbohydrates or sugar treats before bed. In addition, forgetting to take insulin shots before bed or taking the wrong medication dosage may also lead to high blood glucose levels in the morning. Testing blood sugar levels at night is a good way to determine whether the peaks are are a result of the dawn phenomenon or other causes.
Risk Factors for Hyperglycemia
There are several factors that can contribute to a patient’s risk for hyperglycemia, including:
- Age
- Genetics
- Lack of exercise
- Poor diet
- Alcohol consumption
- Illnesses and infections
- Injuries or surgeries
- Steroid use
- Using an incorrect dosage or using expired insulin
- Stress
Complications from Hyperglycemia
Complications often occur if a patient has high blood glucose levels for a prolonged period of time without treatment. Hyperglycemia may cause a wide range of health complications.
Retinopathy
Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness in adults, and retinopathy is one of the primary complications of hyperglycemia. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss or blindness. Symptoms of retinopathy include blurry vision, floaters, and difficulty seeing at night. It’s important to have regular eye exams if you have diabetes, so your doctor can detect any signs of retinopathy early.
Nephropathy
High blood sugar levels can also damage the kidneys, leading to nephropathy. This is a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. Symptoms of nephropathy include swelling in the feet or ankles, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. To prevent nephropathy, it’s important to keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range and to have regular kidney function tests.
Neuropathy
Diabetes can damage the nerves in the body, leading to neuropathy. This can cause tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, as well as muscle weakness and difficulty walking. Neuropathy can also affect the digestive system, leading to constipation, diarrhea, or gastroparesis. To prevent neuropathy, it’s important to manage your blood sugar levels and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Gastroparesis
This condition affects the digestive system, slowing down the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Gastroparesis is more common in people with diabetes, and it can be caused by high blood sugar levels or other factors. To prevent gastroparesis, it’s important to manage your blood sugar levels and to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Foot Problems
Hyperglycemia can cause poor circulation and nerve damage in the feet, making it difficult to feel heat, cold, or pain. This can lead to skin infections, ulcers, and even amputations. To prevent foot problems, it is important to check your feet regularly for cuts, sores, or infections and to wear comfortable shoes that fit well.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Diabetics may also experience diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when the body’s cells become less sensitive to insulin. Low insulin levels make it difficult for body cells to access glucose. This forces the cells to use fat for energy instead and fat breakdown produces ketones. The human body cannot tolerate high ketone levels. Some ketones may pass in the urine, but if they build up in the body it causes acidity in the blood.
DKA causes acid buildup in the body, which may lead to diabetic coma without prompt treatment. Patients who experience dry mouth, shortness of breath, vomiting, nausea and fruity smelling breath should seek medical attention.
Heart Disease and Stroke
High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the body, leading to heart disease and stroke. These are serious conditions that can be life-threatening. Symptoms of heart disease include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Symptoms of stroke include confusion, difficulty speaking, and sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs. To prevent heart disease and stroke, it’s important to manage your blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
Diagnosing Hyperglycemia
A simple blood test can diagnose hyperglycemia. The test measures the level of glucose in your blood. Your doctor may order another test called HbA1c, which measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. If your HbA1c level is more than 6.5%, you may have hyperglycemia.
Hyperglycemia Treatment
If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to more severe health problems, such as vision loss, nerve damage, and heart disease. Fortunately, there are various ways to prevent and manage hyperglycemia.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes are the most effective way to treat hyperglycemia and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. One of the most important lifestyle changes is maintaining a healthy diet. A diet that’s low in carbohydrates, fats, and sugars can help you manage your blood sugar levels effectively. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can also help lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, exercising regularly, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can all help keep your blood sugar levels in control. Exercising regularly can also help maintain healthy blood glucose levels. However, exercise may not be safe for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis because it may cause blood glucose levels to rise .
Oral Medications
Oral medications can be prescribed to lower blood sugar levels. These medications work by increasing the amount of insulin in your body or decreasing the amount of glucose produced by your liver. Some of the commonly prescribed oral medications include Metformin, Sulfonylureas, Meglitinides, and DPP-4 inhibitors. These medications may have potential side effects, so it’s important to discuss their usage with your healthcare provider.
Insulin Therapy
Insulin therapy is necessary for individuals with type 1 diabetes to control their blood sugar levels. However, individuals with type 2 diabetes may also require insulin therapy if their blood sugar levels are too high. Insulin can be administered through injections or insulin pumps. Various types of insulin available, each with its own onset and duration. Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels can help ensure that the right type and amount of insulin is being administered.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a newer technology that can help individuals with diabetes monitor their blood sugar levels in real-time. A small device is inserted under the skin that continuously measures blood glucose levels throughout the day. CGM can help individuals better understand how their blood sugar levels respond to specific foods or activities. This information can be used to make adjustments in diet or activity levels to help keep blood glucose levels in control.
Stress Management
Stress can cause an increase in blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is essential to learn techniques to manage and reduce stress. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises are excellent stress-management techniques that have been shown to lower blood sugar levels.
Diabetes Education and Support
Finally, diabetes education and support are essential for managing hyperglycemia. Enrolling in a diabetes education program can help individuals better understand their medications, develop healthy habits, and learn how to manage their blood sugar levels effectively. Support groups and diabetes coaching can also provide emotional support and a sense of community for individuals with hyperglycemia. These additional resources can help individuals maintain their motivation to manage their health proactively.
Diet for Hyperglycemia
Go for Low GI Foods
Foods with a low glycemic index (GI) help regulate your blood sugar levels by releasing glucose slowly into the bloodstream. Examples of low GI foods include whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, vegetables, and most fruits. These foods take longer to digest, and they prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. It is advisable to incorporate these foods into your meals and choose them over high GI foods such as white rice, bread, and pasta.
Eat More Fiber
Fiber aids digestion, slows down the absorption of glucose, and keeps you feeling full for longer. This is great news for people with hyperglycemia as it helps to manage blood sugar levels. Foods rich in fiber include whole-grain bread, whole-grain cereals, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Incorporating these foods into your diet is essential for maintaining a healthy blood sugar range.
Choose Lean Protein
Protein contains a type of amino acid called branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). BCAAs can improve insulin sensitivity, which is essential in managing hyperglycemia. But it’s crucial to choose lean protein sources as some meats and dairy products have a high fat content. Great sources of lean protein include fish, skinless poultry, legumes, lentils, tofu, tempeh, and low-fat dairy products.
Limit Your Intake of Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates
Sugar and refined carbs can be harmful to people with hyperglycemia as they cause a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Sugary drinks, cakes, pastries, white bread, and white rice are examples of high sugar/refined carb foods to avoid. Instead, aim to sweeten your meals with natural sweeteners such as honey, agave, or stevia. Or, you can indulge your sweet tooth in fruits that are low GI and high in fiber.
Control Portion Sizes
The amount of food you eat also affects your blood sugar. If you are trying to manage your hyperglycemia, controlling your portion sizes is vital. Aim to eat small meals throughout the day, and never skip breakfast. The general rule is to fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables.
Hyperglycemia and Hypoglycemia
Hyperglycemia is a condition that occurs when your blood sugar levels are too high. This can happen when your body produces too much insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to regulate your blood sugar levels. If left untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to more serious health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and nerve damage.
Hypoglycemia is the opposite of hyperglycemia and occurs when your blood sugar levels are too low. This can happen when your body produces too much insulin or after you have consumed too much alcohol or sugar. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can cause seizures and other serious health problems.
In conclusion, understanding hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia is crucial for anyone who is health-conscious. By monitoring your blood sugar levels and managing your diet and lifestyle, you can help prevent these conditions from becoming more serious health problems. If you are experiencing symptoms of either condition, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider and get the appropriate treatment. With the right resources and support, you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Supplements for Hyperglycemia
Cinnamon Bark
According to research, cinnamon bark can help maintain healthy blood glucose levels and support digestion. In addition, it is rich in antioxidants that aim to counter the damaging effects of free radicals in the body. This supplement may help patients maintain healthy cholesterol and glucose levels. Combined with exercise and a healthy diet, cinnamon bark extract may also help maintain a healthy body weight. In addition, the supplement may help strengthen the immune system and support heart health.
The healthy dosage for cinnamon bark extract is between 650 and 1,350 mg up to three times per day. For best results, take the supplement with meals and water. Exceeding the recommended dosage may be harmful even though experts consider it safe. Patients who are pregnant or nursing should avoid the supplement to avoid any potential risks. Consult a doctor to confirm the supplement’s dosage and safety.
Ginseng Root
Studies state that ginseng root can help support the immune system and cardiovascular health. In addition, ginseng is a powerful antioxidant that aims to protect the body from free radical damage. It may also promote brain and cognitive health as well as metabolism and sexual function.
The recommended serving size for ginseng root extract powder is between 1,000 and 2,000 mg once or twice a day. Side effects may include loss of appetite, stomach pain, insomnia and mood changes. Patients should stop using the supplement if they notice signs of allergic reactions including swelling, itching or a rash. Pregnant and breastfeeding patients should avoid this supplement. In addition, patients with autoimmune and heart disorders, diabetes and high blood pressure should not take the supplement without consulting a physician first.
Berberine
Berberine supports healthy blood glucose levels, liver function and cardiac health. In addition, it may also help patients maintain a healthy weight. Berberine may help with vision and digestion and research claims that it may help control diabetes (x). It is a plant alkaloid that can reduce blood sugar levels by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is an enzyme that stimulates glucose uptake, leading to lower blood sugar levels. Berberine can also reduce inflammation and improve lipid metabolism in the body.
The recommended dosage for berberine HCL powder is 500 mg twice a day. However, do not use this supplement for more than three months at a time without approval from a doctor. This product may not be safe for children and pregnant or nursing patients. In addition, patients with blood pressure conditions should avoid supplementing with berberine. Consult a doctor before adding this supplement to a supplement regimen.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D supports bone health, metabolism and it also helps regulate phosphorus and calcium absorption in the body. In addition, vitamin D is essential for promoting healthy bones and teeth. The recommended dosage for vitamin D3 supplements may range depending on patients’ individual needs. But physicians recommend that patients start with the lowest dosage. Physicians recommend 50 mg of vitamin D3 daily with food.
Despite its benefits, vitamin D can be toxic in extreme doses. Side effects may include weight loss, irregular heartbeat, weak muscles, nausea, constipation, seizures and irritability. It may not be safe for patients who are pregnant or nursing.
Gymnema Extract
Gymnema extract is an herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It contains active compounds called gymnemic acids that inhibit the absorption of sugar in the intestines, increase insulin secretion, and improve glucose utilization by cells. A few studies suggest that gymnema extract supplements can act as a natural anti-diabetic agent by reducing fasting blood sugar levels, HbA1c levels, and postprandial glucose levels. You can purchase gymnema extract supplements from a health store or online. As a dietary supplement, take 500 mg of gymnema extract powder once or twice a day. Do not take this supplement with aspirin and it may also cause adverse interactions with diabetes medication. Consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
Chromium Picolinate
Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps regulate insulin levels and blood sugar. It is found naturally in many foods, but supplementing with chromium picolinate is a more effective way to ensure you are getting enough of it in your diet. Studies have shown that taking chromium picolinate can significantly reduce fasting and post-meal glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. It is a naturally occurring compound in foods like broccoli, spinach, and potatoes, but supplementing with alpha-lipoic acid can provide additional health benefits for people with hyperglycemia.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. Research has shown that magnesium deficiency is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes. Supplementing with magnesium can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in people with hyperglycemia.
Fiber
Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream. Increasing your fiber intake through supplements like psyllium husk or glucomannan can be an effective way to manage your hyperglycemia and promote overall digestive health.
Bottom Line
Hyperglycemia is a condition that refers to high blood glucose levels. It interferes with the body’s ability to make insulin, which is a common characteristic in patients with diabetes. Signs of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, nausea, weakness and vomiting. It may also cause fruity-smelling breath, confusion or shortness of breath. Usually patients experience symptoms associated with high blood sugar levels after meals. They may also develop in the morning if the patient consumes sugary foods before bed.
By consuming hyperglycemia supplements, you can balance your blood sugar levels, promote insulin sensitivity, and avoid various health complications. Berberine, cinnamon, magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid, and gymnema extract are some of the effective supplements that aim to regulate sugar levels naturally. However, before trying any of these supplements, ensure to consult a healthcare professional and follow your prescribed medication and dietary plan. Take care of your body, stay healthy, and live life to the fullest.
The best treatment method is prevention by maintaining regular exercise and healthy dietary choices. This may help protect the body from diabetes. Patients with diabetes should take their insulin as prescribed and have regular physical checkups from a physician. Without treatment, hyperglycemia may cause many health complications, including acidity in the blood, diabetic coma and a higher risk of infections. In addition, patients may also use natural supplements to help control blood sugar levels. However, they are not a proper medical treatment for hyperglycemia or any other medical condition. Instead, they aim to promote overall health and they may be effective with a doctor’s approval.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease