How to Balance Insulin

How to Balance Insulin
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Insulin resistance and diabetes are the two main problems you can face when it comes to high or low blood sugar. Insulin is produced by the pancreas to manage dietary sugars that you consume daily. When the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin or too much, your blood sugar becomes imbalanced, leading to dizziness, nausea, fatigue and dry mouth. Balancing your insulin production with the help of your doctor can help you prevent side effects due to blood sugar spikes and drops.

Step 1

Limit the amount of carbohydrates you consume. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugar in your body. This can cause your blood sugar to spike, forcing your pancreas to work overtime in attempt to produce enough insulin to distribute these sugars. Opt for whole grain breads, pastas and oats instead. Carbohydrates are good for you in moderation. However, according to Ilyse Simon of Chronogram, too many carbohydrates can be very bad for your pancreas.

Step 2

Inject your insulin dose at the same time every day as instructed by your doctor. Not all patients are on insulin injections and may be given pills instead. Ensure you follow dosing instructions on any insulin therapy you are on to supplement your body with the right amount of insulin it needs to become balanced.

Step 3

Consume 60 to 70 grams of protein per day. According to Women to Women, protein helps balance your insulin by counterbalancing insulin increase from carbohydrate consumption. This helps relieve additional stress on your pancreas, keeping your insulin levels constant and helping avoid blood sugar spikes and drops.

Step 4

Snack on fats sparingly to help stave off hunger and regulate insulin production. Good fats, such as those found in almonds and walnuts, help prevent overeating and slows down your digestive tract, allowing more time for insulin to break down sugars in your body.

Step 5

Eat regularly, avoiding overeating and meal skipping. In order to keep your insulin at a balanced level, eat every three to four hours. Carrying healthy snacks with you to work or on errands will help you keep on track with your eating habits.

References

Article reviewed by Robin Raven Last updated on: Sep 1, 2011

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