How to control high blood sugar
High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, is a condition in which the body has too much glucose in the blood. Glucose is a type of sugar that the body uses for energy. When blood sugar levels are too high, it can lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and blindness.
There are a number of things that people can do to control their blood sugar levels, including:
- Eating a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is one of the most important things that people with high blood sugar can do to control their condition. A healthy diet for people with high blood sugar includes:
- Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Choosing lean protein sources, such as fish, chicken, and beans
- Limiting unhealthy fats, such as saturated and trans fats
- Limiting added sugar
- Exercising regularly
Exercise is another important part of managing high blood sugar. Exercise helps the body to use glucose for energy, which can help to lower blood sugar levels. People with high blood sugar should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Taking medication
In some cases, people with high blood sugar may need to take medication to help control their condition. There are a number of different types of medications available to treat high blood sugar, and the best type of medication for a particular person will depend on their individual circumstances.
- Monitoring blood sugar levels
Monitoring blood sugar levels is an important part of managing high blood sugar. People with high blood sugar should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, and they should work with their doctor to set target blood sugar levels.
By following these tips, people with high blood sugar can help to control their condition and prevent serious health problems.
Here are some additional tips for controlling high blood sugar:
- Lose weight if you are overweight or obese. Losing even a small amount of weight can help to lower blood sugar levels.
- Get enough sleep. When you don't get enough sleep, your body releases hormones that can raise blood sugar levels.
- Manage stress. Stress can also raise blood sugar levels. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
- Don't smoke. Smoking can damage your blood vessels and make it harder for your body to control blood sugar levels.
- Get regular checkups. It's important to see your doctor regularly for checkups, even if your blood sugar levels are under control.
If you have high blood sugar, it's important to work with your doctor to create a treatment plan that is right for you. By following your treatment plan, you can help to control your blood sugar levels and prevent serious health problems.
