Feeling helpless in the fight against high blood sugar? Do you think you should just take your diabetes medications and not worry about it? Wrong! Read on, and learn how to start enjoying lower blood sugar… naturally!
Be Informed
Learn about diabetes (from reputable sources, of course!) When it comes to managing high blood sugar, knowledge is power. The more information you have, the better decisions you can make!
Work with your healthcare team to develop a realistic plan of care for your high blood sugar. Get involved in your care – ask questions. Be your own advocate in your journey to better health. While this article emphasizes natural blood sugar management tips, always be sure to take your prescription medications as directed by your physician.
Eat Right
Eating right starts with eating regularly. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar to drop, then skyrocket the moment you eat again. Be sure to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner each day. Talk with your doctor to see if snacking in between meals would be a good way to keep sugar stable, as well.
Meals should include a good balance of protein, fiber, and good fats. ‘Traditional’ proteins like beef, chicken, fish, and eggs are all good choices. Don’t forget to add alternative proteins like nuts and seeds to round out your diet.
In the good fats department, it’s hard to beat the avocado. Research has shown that eating avocados can have a positive impact on insulin levels. Monounsaturated fats help boost insulin function, keeping blood sugar lower and more stable. An avocado is a great source of fiber, which helps to regulate blood sugar, as well.
Speaking of fiber, fresh berries are low-glycemic and contain more than 7 grams of fiber per cup. In fact, studies have found that glucose levels reduce over time when blueberries are included in one’s diet.
For more blood sugar-stabilizing superfoods, check out these Fall Favorites!
Get Moving
Regular physical activity contributes nearly countless positive effects on your health, especially for those with diabetes. It helps your body make the best use of insulin and glucose, which controls blood sugar more effectively. In fact, exercise can reduce blood sugar levels for up to 24 hours after working out!
Regular physical activity also lowers blood pressure, improves circulation, and helps control cholesterol levels, thereby reducing risk of heart attack and stroke. Exercise also helps to strengthen muscles and bones, along with burning extra body fat. It’s a great way to boost energy levels and reduce stress, too! Research has shown that even a short walk each day can make a major difference in your health.
Having trouble getting motivated to exercise? These tips can help!
Sleep Well
Not only does a bad night’s sleep affect your mood, it can also affect blood sugar. The body’s reaction to lack of sleep can mimic insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs due to the cell’s inability to utilize insulin. This results in high blood sugar. Imagine if your blood sugar was spiking every single night simply because you were having trouble sleeping… yikes!
Get better ZZZ’s now with these Snooze Foods!
Manage Stress
When the body experiences stress, blood sugar spikes. Cortisol, “stress hormone,” floods the body and instructs cells to either absorb extra glucose for immediate energy, or store it for later. Frequent high cortisol levels can contribute to insulin resistance, increasing risk of Type II diabetes.
Try a few of these stress management strategies!
Stay Accountable/Seek Support
Speaking of stress, surround yourself with a good support system. Be sure to talk about your health goals with your family members and friends. Not only will they hold you accountable, but can also serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration when you get discouraged.
While working to lower blood sugar naturally may seem intimidating, we hope these tips have made it feel a little more manageable. Healing diabetes is not only possible, it’s the key to a longer, healthier life!
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/manage-blood-sugar-18/prevent-sugar-spikes
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