Easy Ways to Lower Your Blood Sugar Levels

If you struggle to lower your blood sugar, you will be at an increased risk for serious health complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and vision loss. Knowing what to watch out for can help you keep your sugar levels lower, or steady. Read on to find out more:

Stick to a healthy diet

Maintain a balanced diet by avoiding “empty calorie” foods such as processed foods whenever possible. For a balanced diet, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.

Reduce stress levels

Stress has a direct impact on your overall well-being as it increases your blood sugar. Drinking too much alcohol, eating unhealthily and smoking are just a few ways we deal with stress negatively. Fortunately, there are positive ways to take the stress load off like meditating, eating well, journaling, exercising, and resting.

Increase your fiber intake

Legumes, such as beans, peas, chickpeas and lentils have very low glycemic index (GI) scores. They are also a good source of protein that can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Avoid added sugars and syrups, sauces and marinades as these can significantly increase a product’s GI score.  Be sure to include whole grain carbohydrates.  This is an easy way to increase your fiber intake for easier digestion, cholesterol management and a healthier lifestyle.

Maintain a healthy weight

Losing excess fat can reduce the amount of metabolically active tissue in your body. This is achievable by consistent exercise and keeping active regularly. There are a number of creative ways to exercise when you need a little motivation.

Drink more water

Drink plenty of clear liquids while avoiding sugary drinks and juices. Take note of how your urine looks – if it’s yellow, you’re most likely dehydrated. Drinking enough water rehydrates the blood and helps our kidneys flush out excess sugar in our blood.

Stick to your medication

People with diabetes might need to take medication and measure their blood sugar regularly to reduce the potential risks of dangerous symptoms and complications. Skipping a dose of medication or insulin can be harmful to your body and increase your blood sugar levels. Stick to your treatment plan.

Keep in mind that your overall dietary intake, as well as body weight and level of activity, are important when it comes to managing blood sugar control and prevention against chronic disease. Please make sure to speak to your health care provider for further information.