Increased levels of blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, can occur when your body does not produce enough insulin or does not use insulin effectively. Symptoms of high blood sugar include increased thirst, frequent urination and increased levels of sugar in your urine. If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to life-threatening conditions such as ketoacidosis, also known as a diabetic coma. In some cases, making a few changes in lifestyle can effectively manage your blood sugar. Ask your doctor what changes you can make to help maintain a healthy level of blood sugar.
Step 1
Eat a healthy diet to help control blood sugar. Eat high-fiber foods including whole grain breads and cereals, brown rice, beans, lentils and whole grain pastas. Consume fresh fruits and vegetables and eat poultry, fish and soy products. Cook with healthy fats such as olive and canola oil, and eat low-fat and fat-free dairy products.
Step 2
Exercise for 2 1/2 hours each week to help manage blood sugar. Perform moderate aerobic activities such as walking, swimming, riding your bike or anything else that you enjoy and gets you moving. Exercising after a meal can be effective in lowering blood sugar levels.
Step 3
Lose weight. The loss of even just 5 lb. may reduce your blood sugar. If you are overweight, talk to your doctor about weight-loss options that are appropriate for you.
Step 4
Limit alcohol use. Drinking alcohol can cause your blood sugar to fluctuate so drink responsibly. Consume alcohol during a meal and limit your intake to one drink if you are a woman and two drinks if you are a man.
Step 5
Examine your stress level. If you are experiencing emotional stress, it can increase your blood sugar level. In some cases, asking your doctor to advise you about ways to manage your stress level might help with blood sugar management.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise with a friend to help you stay accountable.
- Talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise or weight-loss program.
References
- The Cleveland Clinic: Diet and Diabetes
- American Diabetes Association: Hyperglycemia---High Blood Glucose
- MayoClinic.com: Hyperglycemia in Diabetes: Symptoms
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diabetes Diet-General Dietary Guidelines
- MayoClinic.com: Diabetes: Prevention
- FamilyDoctor.org: Living with Diabetes: The Basics
