There are millions of people in the United States that have diabetes. Some have type 1, which occurs when the immune system destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. That means the body doesn’t produce enough insulin to function normally. Type 2 diabetes often occurs later in life. It starts with cells developing insulin resistance or a lower functioning pancreas. There are several contributing factors for this type. It is influenced by environmental factors, genetics, inactivity or diet. For both types of diabetes and many prediabetics or those with insulin, lower blood sugar is often the goal.
It starts with eating healthier.
Diet is ultimately important for anyone with problems regulating blood sugar levels. Reducing the amount of simple carbohydrates in your diet is important. Not all carbohydrates are created equally when it comes to blood sugar. Simple carbs, such as sugar, break down quickly. Think pastry, sugar and fruit juice concentrate. Complex carbs break down more slowly. They’re high in fiber, which slows the digestion. These types of foods help prevent spikes in blood sugar. They include fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains. Choosing food with a low glycemic index is important.
Burn off that extra sugar with exercise.
Participating in a program of regular exercise not only helps you lose weight and tone muscles, it also helps you improve your insulin sensitivity. Insulin sensitivity is the ability for your cells to use the blood sugar. When you exercise, your muscles use the blood sugar for energy. That not only lowers blood sugar, it actually helps with insulin resistance.
Controlling blood sugar is aided by staying hydrated.
Water is your friend, whether you’re trying to lose weight, want a quicker-picker-upper or want to control your blood sugar levels. Drinking water not only quenches your thirst, it keeps you hydrated without adding extra calories. Studies show that drinking more water improves the potential for maintaining good blood sugar levels. It also helps flush the kidney’s of the extra blood sugar, via the urine.
- If you have high blood sugar, always make sure you track your blood sugar levels to prevent it from getting too low during exercise.
- Keep stress under control. That’s not always easy to do, but very important. Stress affects your blood sugar through the release of hormones like cortisol and glucagon. Breathing techniques, meditation and other relaxation techniques can help.
- While it won’t lower your blood sugar immediately, getting adequate sleep will help keep blood sugar level. Lack of sleep or poor quality sleep can affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. It also increases the hunger hormone and reduces the hormone that makes you feel full.
- Include various herbs and spices in your diet. Cinnamon is known to help lower blood sugar levels by as much as 28%. Fenugreek seeds also can improve fasting glucose levels and lower blood sugar in diabetics.
For more information, contact us today at 180 Fitness