How Blood Sugar Relates To Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition where the body is unable to process sugar properly. In particular, in people with diabetes, the hormone insulin is not as effective at managing sugar. Often, the body may not make enough insulin or struggle to use the insulin effectively. When sugar isn’t properly managed, a person may have high blood sugar. And left uncontrolled, diabetes can create a domino effect of health issues that impact every facet of the body. Learning how to lower blood sugar safely can go a long way towards improving health outcomes.

1. Focus on a healthy diet

Many people are surprised to find that sugars can be found in a wide range of foods, including options that don’t even taste sweet. For example, carbs are a primary culprit behind blood sugar spikes. But beyond watching carb and sugar intake, people with diabetes should also be mindful of how much food is eaten at each setting. Large meals can also contribute to dangerous sugar spikes. Rather than eating three large meals per day, experts recommend that people with diabetes eat smaller meals throughout the day to keep blood sugar levels stable.

2. Get moving

Unsurprisingly, exercise is an activity that offers a wide range of benefits, including for people with diabetes. Exercise also serves as a stress-busting activity, along with the added benefit of potentially shedding a few pounds. And according to research, stress can cause blood sugars to rise. However, people don’t have to engage in high-impact exercise if the activity is too difficult. In a recent study, researchers found that even an hour a week of yoga and meditation practice not only reduced stress but lowered blood glucose levels after 12 weeks of consistent activity.

3. Drink up, but water, of course

Dehydration doesn’t just impact thirst and the way a person’s skin looks. Drinking enough water can also help people better process sugar. Specifically, increasing water intake aids the kidneys in removing excess sugar from the body through the urine. Additionally, people with diabetes should avoid drinks that are high in sugar, which can also include alcohol. While women are recommended to drink no more than one alcoholic beverage per day, men are generally restricted to two alcoholic drinks.

Being proactive about blood sugar levels

While no cure for diabetes currently exists, people with the condition can still live happy and full lives. Learning to make different choices about food and learning how to monitor blood sugar levels properly may initially be difficult but is manageable. But making an effort to effectively handle the condition can help to minimize the risk of developing other dangerous health conditions as a result of uncontrolled sugar. Individuals seeking more information about how to manage diabetes properly should speak with a physician or dietitian.