High sugar levels occur when your body can't produce insulin fast enough to move excess sugar from your blood into your cells. Also known as hyperglycemia, high blood sugar can occur if you overeat, don't exercise, are ill, stressed-out or miss taking your diabetes medication. You may become thirsty, sleepy, hungry or experience blurred vision. If your blood sugar remains high, you risk ketoacidosis -- or a diabetic coma caused by a lack of insulin. Monitor your glucose levels closely and consult your physician if your blood sugar stays above 240 mg/dL.
Step 1
Exercise to lower your blood sugar -- but only if your glucose level is less than 240 mg/dL and there are no ketones in your urine. MayoClinic.com says that regular exercise improves your body's response to insulin and the harder your workout, the longer the beneficial effects last. Check your blood sugar level before, during and after exercise, and stop immediately if you feel dizzy or experience chest pain.
Step 2
Avoid sugar and simple carbohydrates that will raise your blood sugar level quickly. Eat a well-balanced diet with lean protein and complex carbohydrates high in fiber, such as leafy green vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Fiber will help slow down the absorption of sugar from your stomach into your bloodstream. It will also provide a sense of fullness and may prevent overeating.
Step 3
Learn to relax. Reader's Digest notes that stress hormones may release extra sugar into your blood stream. Try deep breathing exercises, creative visualization, keeping a journal, yoga or massage.
Step 4
Discuss increasing your diabetes medication with your doctor. If your blood sugar is consistently too high, you may need to adjust your medicine. Always consult your doctor before making any changes in your diabetes treatment plan.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat small meals consistently every three to four hours to stabilize your glucose levels, and don't skip meals. Keep a record of your food and glucose levels, and look for patterns that may help you determine if you are eating too much or eating too many carbohydrates.
- Carbohydrates affect blood sugar more than fat or protein. If your blood sugar is too high, eat fewer carbohydrates.
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