Symptoms of high blood sugar, also called hyperglycemia, can include frequent urination, increased thirst and high levels of sugar in your urine. Hyperglycemia can occur if the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to use insulin effectively. If high blood sugar goes untreated, it can progress to a life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis, more commonly known as diabetic coma. In some cases, changes in lifestyle can effectively lower your blood sugar, but in others, medication may be required.
Diet
Eat a healthy diet to help lower your blood sugar. Consume fruits and vegetables with the skins on and other high-fiber foods, including barley, whole grain pastas, brown rice, beans and lentils. Eat healthy monounsaturated fats including avocados, nuts, olive oil, canola oil and flaxseed oil. Avoid foods that contain trans fats, such as fried foods, snack foods and commercially baked products including cookies and cakes. Consume nonfat or low-fat dairy products and eat lean proteins such as fish, soy and poultry. In addition, consume meals at approximately the same time each day to keep your blood sugar level even.
Exercise
Lower your blood sugar by incorporating 30 minutes of aerobic exercise into your day. Swim laps, ride your bike or participate in any form of exercise that you enjoy and gets you moving. If you need motivation, pair up with a friend for daily walks or join an exercise class. If you are not able to fit in a full 30-minute session, do shorter sessions throughout the day. The most important thing is to make exercise part of your daily routine. Talk with your doctor about exercise before you begin, especially if you have not exercised recently.
Weight Management
Lose weight to help lower your blood sugar. If you are overweight, even the loss of 5 percent of your total body weight can help you manage blood sugar. Examine your eating habits by keeping a food journal. If necessary, your doctor can help you set a realistic weight-loss goal and suggest a weight-loss program appropriate for you.
Medication
Talk to your doctor about medication. In some cases, lifestyle changes alone will not be enough to manage your blood sugar. Some medications commonly used are Metformin, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and insulin. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe medication that is appropriate for you.
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
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Living with Diabetes: The Basics
