Hyperglycemia Diet Plan

Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, occurs when your body does not make insulin or uses insulin improperly. Hyperglycemia is usually a complication of uncontrolled diabetes, but can occasionally affect nondiabetics as well. Fortunately, most cases of hyperglycemia can be controlled with the proper eating plan.

Complex Carbohydrates

Different types of carbohydrates move through your digestive system at different rates. Refined carbohydrates, like white bread, white rice and sugar, enter your bloodstream quickly, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates move through your digestive system at a slower rate, and because of this, raise your blood sugar to a lesser degree. To help control your blood sugar levels, make sure most of your carbohydrate intake is the form of complex carbohydrates. It is also important to control the amount of carbohydrates you eat at every meal. While every case is different, the American Diabetes Association recommends starting at 45 to 60 g of carbohydrates per meal and then adjusting your carbohydrate intake based on your blood sugar response.

Fiber

Fiber, a specific type of carbohydrate, is defined as the portion of a plant food that your body is unable to digest. Because your body cannot digest fiber, it does not raise your blood sugar levels. In fact, fiber reduces the rate at which your body absorbs fat and protein, lowering the amount of fat in your blood after a meal and improving your sensitivity to the hormone insulin. Fiber also slows down the absorption of glucose, helping to prevent a rapid increase in blood sugar that leads to hyperglycemia. Specific fiber recommendations differ based on your specific condition. Work closely with your doctor and your dietitian to determine how much fiber you should be eating.

Protein and Fat

While much of the focus for the diet plan for hyperglycemia is on your carbohydrate intake, consider your intake of protein and fat as well. You should consume small amounts of protein and fat at each meal. Protein and fat help you meet your calorie needs while filling you up so that you do not overeat. When choosing protein, opt for protein sources that contain low amounts of saturated fat, such as skinless chicken breast, beans, nuts, peanut butter and low-fat dairy products. Choose unsaturated fat sources, like vegetable oils, avocado and nuts.

Calories

Excess weight can make your body less sensitive to insulin, increasing your risk of developing hyperglycemia. If you are overeating, reduce the amount of calories you consume at each meal by cutting down your portion sizes. This can help you lose weight and make you more sensitive to insulin.