High blood glucose, medically termed hyperglycemia, is a condition that occurs when your body produces too little insulin, or when it cannot effectively use the insulin produced by the pancreas. This condition is a primary complication of diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. High blood glucose can cause dizziness, fatigue, mental confusion, excessive hunger and muscle weakness. Diet is an essential part of controlling blood glucose levels--certain foods may help you lower blood sugars and avoid the symptoms of hyperglycemia.
Talk to your physician if you plan to make dietary changes to address hyperglycemia. High blood glucose is a serious medical condition that requires medical supervision.
Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes, such as chickpeas, lentils, kidney beans and turtle beans, also known as black beans, may help lower blood sugar levels, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." These foods are abundant sources of dietary fiber, which may absorb carbohydrates and sugars in your digestive system, preventing them from entering your bloodstream. Beans and legumes also contain protein, which may help prevent fatigue and other symptoms of hyperglycemia.
Whole Grains
Whole-grain breads, pastas, bagels and muffins may help lower blood glucose, particularly when you consume these foods in place of white breads, pastries and pastas, according to the Balchs. Your body converts the carbohydrates in whole-grain products at a much slower rate than refined grains, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. Like beans and legumes, whole-grain products also provide dietary fiber for stabilizing blood glucose. Whole grains contain B vitamins, which may improve your body's metabolism of glucose for energy.
Garlic
Allicin, the chemical compound produced when you chop, dice or crush garlic, may help lower blood glucose levels, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Garlic also contains another chemical called ajoene, which may aid in the maintenance of blood sugar.
Hot Peppers
If you have hyperglycemia, you may benefit from adding hot peppers to your diet. Hot peppers such as cayennes, jalapenos, serranos and chilis contain a chemical compound called capsaicin, according to Castleman. Capsaicin may improve blood flow and digestion, which may help regulate the introduction of glucose into your bloodstream.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Hyperglycemia (High Blood Glucose)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
