If you have a condition, such as diabetes, that raises the risk of high blood sugar, you need to take steps to keep your blood glucose levels in check. A high blood glucose level (hyperglycemia) can lead to serious complications. It is important to be aware of things that can cause your levels to rise. You may find that you need to check your blood sugar level often to learn how to keep your blood glucose levels in check and avoid situations that cause it to rise too high.
Meal Size
According to the Mayo Clinic, your blood sugar level is highest an hour or two after a meal, and then begins to fall. It suggests eating meals at the same time each day and eating the same amount at each meal to keep your glucose levels as steady as possible. Eating too large a meal will cause your blood sugar levels to go up. Monitor your body's response to determine the amount of food that is OK with each meal.
Carbohydrates
The American Diabetes Association states that carbohydrates are the main food type to be careful of. Your doctor or registered dietitian will help you figure out what a safe daily allowance of carbohydrates is. You will need to be especially mindful with starchy carbohydrates: foods such as potatoes, corn and peas.
Ketones
When your body digests fats, it produces a waste product called ketones. If the level of ketones is low enough, your body can get rid of them through your urine. If the level of ketones gets too high, they can build up in your blood. This can bring your blood sugar levels to a dangerously high level, causing ketoacidosis or diabetic coma. Ketoacidosis occurs because your body doesn't have enough insulin. If insulin is not available, your body will break down fats for energy instead of glucose.
Medications and Medical Conditions
The National Institutes of Health says that certain medications may raise your blood sugar level. This includes corticosteroids, antipsychotics, diuretics, high doses of aspirin, estrogen and others. If you have kidney or liver disease, an infection or are pregnant, your blood sugar levels may go up. Any time that your body is fighting an illness, your insulin levels may change or the illness can make insulin less effective.
Stress
When you are feeling stressed, your body responds by releasing hormones. The Mayo Clinic states that hormones the body produces during prolonged stress may prevent insulin from working properly. In addition, during stressful times you are more likely to abandon your exercise program and healthy eating habits, both of which will change your blood glucose levels.
