High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, should not go untreated, according to MayoClinic.com. If left untreated, persistent hyperglycemia can affect your eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart and, in some cases, it can cause life-threatening conditions such as a diabetic coma. Although medication may be necessary to reduce blood sugar in some individuals, others can manage hyperglycemia with just a few changes in lifestyle. Your doctor can assist in lowering blood sugar, by implementing a treatment plan that is appropriate for you.
Step 1
Exercise. Moderate activities performed after a meal can naturally reduce blood sugar, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Choose methods of exercise you enjoy, which also fit your lifestyle. Exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Parking farther from destinations and taking stairs instead of elevators are simple ways to incorporate exercise into your day.
Step 2
Eat healthy foods. Making healthy food choices will aid in blood sugar management. Consume healthy carbohydrates such as fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Eat foods high in fiber, such as beans and nuts, and add healthy fish to your diet, including tuna, halibut and salmon.
Step 3
Go to the doctor. If you have symptoms of high glucose levels, which include frequent urination, blurred vision, increased thirst, fatigue and headache, report them to your doctor immediately. The presence of increased sugar in the urine is another symptom that can be diagnosed with a urine test performed by your doctor.
Step 4
Stay calm. If you are experiencing increased levels of stress, you may want to talk with your doctor about stress management. The hormones produced by your body when you are under stress can cause sugar levels to rise, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about drug therapy. In some cases, lifestyle change alone is not enough to lower blood sugar and your doctor may prescribe medication such as insulin. Your doctor will instruct you how to test your blood sugar and determine when insulin is needed.
Tips and Warnings
- Team up with a friend to keep motivation strong and to hold you accountable to your exercise program.
- Always talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
