High blood sugar, also referred to as hyperglycemia, is a condition that most commonly affects people who have diabetes. It occurs when your body doesn't have enough insulin or can't use insulin properly. Following a diabetic diet, exercising regularly and adding cinnamon to your diet can help prevent hyperglycemia. If you have diabetes, it's important to talk to your doctor to devise a diet and exercise plan that's right for you.
Symptoms
Increased thirst, increased urination and fatigue are all signs of high blood sugar. If you suspect your sugar is high, it's important to check your blood sugar levels. The Mayo Clinic advises treating hyperglycemia as soon as it's detected or it can lead to serious, even fatal complications such as diabetic coma. The symptoms of diabetic coma include shortness of breath, fruity smelling breath, nausea and vomiting and a dry mouth. Your doctor may advise that you take a short-acting insulin if you blood sugar is elevated. If you experience signs of a diabetic coma, seek emergency medical help.
Cinnamon
"Diabetes Care," a publication by the American Diabetes Association found that taking 1 g, 3 g, or 6 g of cinnamon per day can lower glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon also appears to be effective in lowering triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. This is especially important because diabetics are at an increased risk for cardiovascular diseases. The study also notes that cloves, bay leaves and turmeric may also help stabilize glucose levels.
Uses
If you'd like to try adding cinnamon to your diet, it's best to add the spice to your own dishes or beverages. Cereals, baked goods or other packaged foods that contain cinnamon tend to also be high in sugar and saturated or trans fats. Try adding cinnamon to your morning coffee or tea. You can also purchase a low-sugar, high-fiber cereal and add cinnamon to it. Cinnamon can also be used to season side dishes such as carrots or sweet potatoes. Cinnamon supplements are available, but they should only be taken under the care of a health provider.
Warning
Cinnamon should be used to help prevent hyperglycemia. It should not be the sole method of treatment. It's important to discuss a blood sugar treatment plan with your doctor. As long as your doctor deems it safe, regular exercise is encouraged for people with diabetes. However, the American Diabetes Association notes that people who have blood glucose levels above 240 mg/dl should check their urine for ketones. If you find that ketones are present in your urine, do not exercise. Doing so can elevate your blood sugar levels even higher.
