For most individuals, blood sugar evens out automatically depending on the food we eat with the help of insulin. For diabetic individuals, however, the body does not make insulin in the case of type 1 diabetes or no longer responds to insulin in the case of type 2 diabetes. For diabetics, some food can make blood sugar shoot up, including refined carbohydrates and refined sugar. Help lower these levels after your meal if your blood sugar has gone too high.
Step 1
Take insulin or diabetes medication. Individuals who suffer from type 1 diabetes and some with type 2 diabetes must take insulin injections after eating to regulate their blood sugar. Others may require oral diabetes medications to release more insulin or stop glucose production. Take these medications as your doctor has prescribed these for you.
Step 2
Exercise can help lower blood glucose levels for as long as 48 hours after exercising (see link in References). Exercise may not, however, lower blood glucose levels in all people, so consult your doctor and test your blood sugar after exercising.
Step 3
Drink black tea. According to a 2007 study published by the American College of Nutrition, black tea can help reduce blood sugar by up to 40 percent right after eating a meal of high-glycemic foods. The study suggests that drinking 12 oz. black tea can lower blood sugar.
Step 4
Eat cinnamon. According to Mayo Clinic endocrinologist Maria Collazo-Clavell, eating cinnamon was once thought to lower blood sugar. Although Collazo-Clavell does not believe that this is a proven way to lower blood sugar, there are no adverse or negative effects on the body.
Step 5
Avoid refined sugar and carbohydrates. Your blood glucose level increases whenever you consume foods high in refined carbohydrates, like white bread and white rice, and foods that are high in refined sugar, like soda or ice cream. Avoiding these foods will result in stable blood sugar throughout the day.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your doctor before trying to lower blood sugar.
- Do not take a prescription that has not been prescribed for you.
