High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, is a common problem that can lead to serious health complications, including diabetes. If you have high blood sugar, there are a number of natural ways you can lower your levels.
In this post, we will discuss 10 effective ways to lower blood sugar levels naturally. We will also provide tips on how to make these changes a part of your lifestyle.
1. Exercise regularly
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, and it is also a great way to lower blood sugar levels. When you exercise, your muscles use glucose for energy, which can help to lower your blood sugar levels.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. They also recommend that adults do muscle-strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups on two or more days a week.
2. Manage your carb intake
Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy, but they can also raise blood sugar levels if you eat too many of them. It is important to choose complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are digested more slowly, which helps to prevent a sharp rise in blood sugar levels.
Some good sources of complex carbohydrates include:
- Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats
- Fruits, such as berries, apples, and bananas
- Vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas
3. Eat more fiber
Fiber is another important nutrient that can help to lower blood sugar levels. Fiber helps to slow down the absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, which can help to prevent a sharp rise in blood sugar levels.
Some good sources of fiber include:
- Fruits, such as berries, apples, and bananas
- Vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and peas
- Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats
- Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas
4. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and it can also help to lower blood sugar levels. When you are dehydrated, your body releases hormones that can raise blood sugar levels.
The Institute of Medicine recommends that adults get about 15.5 cups of fluids per day for women and about 19.5 cups per day for men. This includes water, unsweetened tea, and coffee.
5. Eat moderate portions
Eating too much food at one time can raise blood sugar levels. It is important to eat moderate portions and to spread your meals and snacks throughout the day. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
6. Eat slowly
When you eat slowly, you give your body time to release insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. It is also important to chew your food thoroughly. This helps to break down the food and makes it easier for your body to digest.
7. Manage stress
Stress can raise blood sugar levels. If you are stressed, try to find healthy ways to manage your stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
8. Get enough sleep
When you do not get enough sleep, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol, which can raise blood sugar levels. It is important to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
9. Avoid sugary drinks
Sugary drinks are a major source of added sugar in the American diet. Added sugar can raise blood sugar levels quickly. It is best to avoid sugary drinks altogether.
10. Choose healthy fats
Healthy fats can help to lower blood sugar levels. Some good sources of healthy fats include:
- Avocados
- Nuts and seeds
- Olive oil
- Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna
Tips for making these changes a part of your lifestyle
Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can be challenging, but it is important to remember that small changes can make a big difference. Here are a few tips for making these changes a part of your lifestyle:
- Start slowly. Do not try to make too many changes at once. Start by making one or two changes and gradually add more changes as you become more comfortable.
- Find healthy alternatives. If you love sugary drinks, find healthy alternatives, such as unsweetened tea or coffee. If you love bread, find whole-grain bread.
- Make it fun. There are many ways to make healthy eating and exercise fun. Find activities that you enjoy and that fit into your lifestyle.
Conclusion
High blood sugar is a serious problem and should not be ignored.