High blood sugar, also called hyperglycemia, happens when there isn't enough insulin to transport glucose into your cells. Excess glucose stays in your bloodstream, causing health complications that range from fatigue and thirst to blindness, kidney failure and heart disease.
Hyperglycemia might be caused by overeating, lack of exercise, illness, stress or not taking diabetes medication. Monitor your glucose levels closely. Any level above 200 mg/dL is considered elevated, but if your blood glucose level remains above 240 mg/dL for more than six hours, and you feel ill, call your doctor.
Step 1
Exercise to lower your glucose levels. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing your glucose levels before, during and after physical activity. If your glucose levels test above 240 mg/dL before you exercise, test for ketones in your urine. If ketones are present, do not exercise.
Step 2
Take a supplemental dose of insulin. You might need to take more units of short-acting, or "regular" insulin, to lower your glucose levels. According to the University of Massachusetts Medical School, take 10 percent of your total daily regular insulin as a supplemental dose. If you normally take 10 units three times a day, your extra dose will be 3 units.
Step 3
Eat foods high in fiber. Although fiber is a type of carbohydrate, your body doesn't digest it. It can help slow down the absorption of sugar from your stomach into your bloodstream and create a sense of fullness, which might help you eat less. Add whole grains, legumes, green vegetables and fruit to your diet. Leave the skin on fruits and vegetables for even more fiber.
Step 4
Maintain a healthy body weight. If you're overweight, losing just 5 percent of your body weight will help your body use insulin more effectively.
Tips and Warnings
- The only way to control your blood sugar level is through careful monitoring, says the Mayo Clinic. Adjust your diabetes medication if your physical activity levels change.
- Increase your water intake as you add fiber to your diet to avoid constipation.
