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Promoting balanced sugar levels

Promoting balanced sugar levels

They also cause blood sugar to rise quickly. Irregular or extreme blood Promoging levels ablanced lead to diabetes and other Pomoting Multivitamin for athletic performance. However, balanded important Promoting balanced sugar levels people with diabetes to monitor carbohydrate Promoting balanced sugar levels Hydration supplements for athletes order to manage their blood sugar levels and adjust insulin dosing as needed. Devineé Lingo is a registered dietitian nutritionist who is on a mission to cultivate health and wholeness in people seeking restoration and renewal. Ask your healthcare professional what type of exercise is right for you. Work with your doctor to establish a personal A1C goal for you. Facilitating behavior change and well-being to improve health outcomes: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes —

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Everything I eat in a day for balanced blood sugar 🫶

Promoting balanced sugar levels -

Soluble dietary fiber appears to be more effective than insoluble fiber for this purpose. In addition to preventing dehydration, it helps your kidneys flush out any excess sugar through urine.

One review of observational studies showed that those who drank more water had a lower risk of developing high blood sugar levels Drinking water regularly may rehydrate the blood, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce diabetes risk 20 , Keep in mind that water and other zero-calorie drinks are best.

Avoid sugar-sweetened options, as these can raise blood glucose, drive weight gain, and increase diabetes risk 22 , Staying hydrated can reduce blood sugar levels and diabetes risk. Choose water and zero-calorie drinks and avoid sugar-sweetened beverages.

Portion control can help you regulate your calorie intake and maintain a moderate weight 24 , Consequently, weight management promotes healthy blood sugar levels and has been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes 1 , 26 , Monitoring your serving sizes also helps prevent blood sugar spikes 2.

The glycemic index GI measures how quickly carbs break down during digestion and how rapidly your body absorbs them. This affects how quickly your blood sugar levels rise The GI divides foods into low, medium, and high GI and ranks them on a scale of 0— Low GI foods have a ranking of 55 or less 15 , Both the amount and type of carbs you eat determine how a food affects your blood sugar levels.

Specifically, eating low GI foods has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes 15 , Furthermore, adding protein or healthy fats helps minimize blood sugar spikes after a meal Stress can affect your blood sugar levels When stressed, your body secretes hormones called glucagon and cortisol, which cause blood sugar levels to rise 29 , One study including a group of students showed that exercise, relaxation, and meditation significantly reduced stress and lowered blood sugar levels Exercises and relaxation methods like yoga and mindfulness-based stress reduction may also help correct insulin secretion problems among people with chronic diabetes 31 , 32 , Managing your stress levels through exercise or relaxation methods like yoga may help you regulate blood sugar levels.

Monitoring blood glucose levels can help you better manage them You can do so at home using a portable blood glucose meter, which is known as a glucometer. You can discuss this option with your doctor. Keeping track allows you to determine whether you need to adjust your meals or medications.

It also helps you learn how your body reacts to certain foods 2. Try measuring your levels regularly every day and keeping track of the numbers in a log. Also, it may be more helpful to track your blood sugar in pairs — for example, before and after exercise or before and 2 hours after a meal.

This can show you whether you need to make small changes to a meal if it spikes your blood sugar, rather than avoiding your favorite meals altogether. Some adjustments include swapping a starchy side for non-starchy veggies or limiting them to a handful.

Checking your blood glucose and maintaining a daily log enables you to adjust foods and medications when necessary to better manage your blood sugar levels. Getting enough sleep feels excellent and is necessary for good health In fact, poor sleeping habits and a lack of rest can affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

They can also increase appetite and promote weight gain 36 , 37 , Additionally, sleep deprivation raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which, as explained, plays an essential role in blood sugar management 29 , Adequate sleep is about both quantity and quality.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get at least 7—8 hours of high quality sleep per night To improve the quality of your sleep , try to:. Good sleep helps maintain your blood sugar levels and promotes a healthy weight. On the other hand, poor sleep can disrupt critical metabolic hormones.

High blood sugar levels and diabetes have been linked to micronutrient deficiencies. Some examples include deficiencies in the minerals chromium and magnesium Chromium is involved in carb and fat metabolism. It may potentiate the action of insulin, thus aiding blood sugar regulation 41 , 42 , 43 , Chromium-rich foods include:.

However, the mechanisms behind this proposed connection are not entirely known, and studies report mixed findings. As such, more research is needed 41 , 45 , Magnesium has also been shown to benefit blood sugar levels.

In fact, diets rich in magnesium are associated with a significantly reduced risk of diabetes In contrast, low magnesium levels may lead to insulin resistance and decreased glucose tolerance in people with diabetes 47 , 48 , Eating foods rich in chromium and magnesium can help prevent deficiencies and reduce the risk of blood sugar problems.

However, the overall quality of evidence on these ingredients is low due to insufficient human studies or small sample sizes. Therefore, no conclusive recommendations can be made regarding their use Some of the foods touted to have anti-diabetes effects include 51 , 52 :. Seafood, including fish and shellfish , is a valuable source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Protein is essential for blood sugar management. It helps slow digestion, prevents postmeal blood sugar spikes, and increases feelings of fullness.

Plus, it may help prevent overeating and promote excess body fat loss, two essential effects for healthy blood sugar levels A high intake of fatty fish such as salmon and sardines has been shown to help improve blood sugar regulation.

For example, in a small study with 68 participants, adults with overweight or obesity who consumed 26 ounces oz , or grams g , of fatty fish per week had significant improvements in postmeal blood sugar levels compared with those who consumed lean fish Brightly colored and packed with fiber and antioxidants, pumpkin is a great choice for blood sugar regulation.

Pumpkin is a traditional diabetes remedy in many countries, including Mexico and Iran Pumpkin is high in carbs called polysaccharides, which have been studied for their blood sugar-regulating potential.

Treatments with pumpkin extracts and powders have been shown to significantly decrease blood sugar levels in both limited human studies and animal studies 16 , Pumpkin seeds are packed with healthy fats and protein, which make them an excellent choice for blood sugar management 18 , Research has shown that eating nuts may be an effective way to help regulate blood sugar levels.

In a small study of 25 people with type 2 diabetes, consuming both peanuts and almonds throughout the day as part of a low carb diet reduced fasting and postmeal blood sugar levels Also, a review found that consuming various types of tree nuts led to reduced fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

However, the authors noted that the results were not clinically significant and that more research is necessary Okra seeds may be beneficial as a natural remedy for diabetes due to their potent blood sugar-lowering properties Rhamnogalacturonan, the main polysaccharide in okra, has been identified as a powerful antidiabetic compound.

Plus, okra contains the flavonoids isoquercitrin and quercetin 3-O-gentiobioside, which help reduce blood sugar by inhibiting certain enzymes 25 , 26 , Although animal studies suggest that okra has potent antidiabetic properties, human research studies are needed.

Flaxseed is rich in fiber and healthy fats and may help reduce blood sugar levels. In an 8-week study of 57 people with type 2 diabetes, those who consumed 7 oz g of 2. Moreover, a review of 25 controlled studies found that eating whole flaxseed led to significant improvements in blood sugar regulation Beans and lentils are rich in magnesium, fiber, and protein.

These nutrients may be able to help lower blood sugar. For example, a study of 12 women demonstrated that adding black beans or chickpeas to a rice meal significantly reduced postmeal blood sugar levels compared with eating rice alone Many other studies have shown that eating beans and lentils can benefit blood sugar regulation and possibly help protect against the development of diabetes 31 , Fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut contain health-promoting compounds, including probiotics, minerals, and antioxidants.

Research associates these compounds with improved blood sugar and insulin sensitivity 33 , A review concluded that probiotic foods had a notable effect on blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers noted that these foods had the greatest impact on people whose diabetes was not well managed and those who were not on insulin therapy However, most studies into the effect of fermented foods on blood sugar regulation involve rodent or cellular investigations.

As a result, further controlled human studies are necessary Eating chia seeds may benefit blood sugar regulation. Some studies link chia seed consumption to reductions in blood sugar levels and improvements in insulin sensitivity. A review of 17 animal studies concluded that chia seeds might help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation and potentially reduce disease risk, including the risk of diabetes It contains multiple compounds that may help decrease blood sugar levels, including fiber and flavonoid antioxidants.

A study that included 42 Japanese adults demonstrated that consuming either 7 or 14 g of kale-containing foods with a high carb meal significantly decreased postmeal blood sugar levels compared with placebo Research has shown that the flavonoid antioxidants found in kale , including quercetin and kaempferol, have potent blood sugar-lowering and insulin-sensitizing effects Numerous studies link berry intake with improved blood sugar regulation.

Berries contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and all of this makes them an excellent choice for people with blood sugar management issues.

A study found that eating 2 cups g of red raspberries with a high carb meal significantly reduced postmeal insulin and blood sugar in adults with prediabetes compared with a control group In addition to raspberries, studies have shown that strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries may benefit blood sugar management by enhancing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose clearance from the blood 43 , 44 , Avocados may offer significant benefits for blood sugar regulation.

Numerous studies have found that avocados may help reduce blood sugar levels and protect against the development of metabolic syndrome through fat loss.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure and high blood sugar, that increases chronic disease risk 46 , 47 , However, remember that many studies investigating the effects of avocado intake on blood sugar levels were funded by the Hass Avocado Board, which could have influenced aspects of the studies 46 , Good sources of fiber include leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, artichokes, raspberries, pears, beans, lentils, peas, avocados, pumpkin seeds, and oatmeal.

Like fiber, protein tempers insulin secretion 2 , leading to a more gradual rise in blood sugar after a meal. It also fills you up better than any other nutrient.

Eating a protein-rich breakfast is particularly important because it helps set the tone for the rest of the day. The amount of protein you need in your diet depends on a number of factors, but the general protein recommendation for healthy adults is 0.

Good animal sources include wild-caught fish , grass-fed beef, and pasture-raised chicken and eggs. If you're vegetarian or vegan, not to worry, we rounded up 54 sources of plant-based protein. Like fiber and protein, fat buffers blood sugar spikes. In fact, unsaturated fats have been specifically linked to improved insulin resistance.

Just be sure to avoid refined fats, including trans fats and processed vegetable oils , like corn, soybean, and safflower oils, which can be pro-inflammatory. Sources of quality fats to consider adding to your diet include nuts, olive oil, ghee, coconut oil, avocado, and fatty fish like salmon.

Lowering your overall intake of carbohydrates can also be helpful for balanced blood sugar , but you don't need to cut them out completely they're still a crucial source of fuel for your body. Whenever possible, simply swap out refined carbohydrates like bread, white pasta, and candy for fiber-rich, whole-food sources such as whole grains, sweet potatoes, and fruit, which contain a number of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential for health.

Eating some protein, fiber, and healthy fat with each meal can help stabilize blood sugar and manage your appetite. Each of these nutrients helps balance blood sugar on its own, but they're even better together.

We love a good kale salad topped with avocado and a protein of choice. Greens powders are dried, powdered forms of various vegetables and fruits. Specialty greens blends will sometimes include prebiotic fibers too.

These antioxidant-laden superfood plants and slow carbs are blood sugar-friendly. If you struggle to stick with salads or you're looking to up your veggies game, then greens powders can help you deliver some greens goodness and help maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

In fact, one study found that adding a vegetable powder to a high-carbohydrate diet helped buffer the short-term glucose and insulin response 3. A giant, late-night dinner is your blood sugar's worst enemy.

That's because our bodies become more insulin resistant as the day goes on 4 —so a meal that you eat in the evening will cause a greater spike in blood sugar than a meal you eat in the morning. Because of this, many nutrition experts advise front-loading your meals, or eating bigger meals earlier in the day and having a smaller dinner at least three hours before bed.

Both sleep deprivation and stress can cause elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which raises blood sugar. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and adopt stress-busting habits such as exercise, meditation, or yoga. One study found that nursing students who did meditation and yoga experienced lower blood sugar spikes 5 after meals.

Drinking water helps your kidneys flush out excess blood sugar through your urine. One study found that people who drank more water had a lower risk of developing hyperglycemia 6 high blood sugar. Can't seem to drink enough?

Or is water is just too plain for your taste buds? Try these other drinks for blood sugar balance. Your muscles need blood glucose for fuel, which means that when you do that strength training routine , you're helping move blood sugar from the bloodstream into the muscles where it's then burned up.

Over time, this can help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level and increase insulin sensitivity 7 i. Intense exercise can temporarily raise blood sugar, so if you have poor blood sugar control, then it makes sense to start moderate think walking, jogging, or yoga , and then work your way up.

Swigging apple cider vinegar might not sound appealing, but it could help keep your blood sugar in balance if taken before you eat. Some research has found that consuming ACV reduced post-meal blood sugar levels by about half in healthy patients.

The theory is that acetic acid, a component of the vinegar, slows down the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar in the bloodstream. Pro tip: Mix a tablespoon or two into a glass of water—taking it straight will burn!

Our Martial Arts and Self-defense advice is expert-vetted. If balqnced buy through our links, Promoitng may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement. Keeping your blood sugar levels balanced can Promoting balanced sugar levels Promotkng Metabolism and sleep less hangry and Multivitamin for athletic performance satisfied. Having balancef blood sugar levels is important in the context of diseases like diabetes. But it also matters on a day-to-day basis: If you feel "hangry" often or tend to crash after meals, those could be signs that your blood sugar is all over the place. By making sure your blood sugar isn't too high or too low, you can feel your best and keep up steady energy throughout the day.

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However, the authors noted that the results were not clinically significant and that more research is necessary Promotin seeds may be beneficial as a natural remedy for diabetes due leevls their potent Promotnig sugar-lowering properties Rhamnogalacturonan, the main Promoring in Promotnig, has been Low-calorie beverages as a powerful Dark chocolate protein bars compound.

Plus, okra contains Natural stress relief formula flavonoids isoquercitrin and balaned 3-O-gentiobioside, which help reduce blood sugar Tips for aging well inhibiting certain enzymes Promofing26 Although animal studies suggest that okra has potent antidiabetic properties, human balancced studies Weight management support needed.

Flaxseed is rich in fiber and healthy fats and may Prompting reduce blood sugar levels. Balancd an 8-week study of 57 people with type 2 diabetes, those who consumed 7 oz g of 2.

Moreover, a review of 25 controlled studies found that eating whole flaxseed led to significant improvements in blood sugar regulation Beans and lentils are rich in magnesium, fiber, and levfls.

These nutrients may be ablanced to help lower blood sugar. For example, a study of 12 women demonstrated that adding black beans or chickpeas to a rice meal significantly reduced postmeal blood sugar levels compared with eating rice alone Many other studies have shown that eating beans and lentils can benefit blood sugar regulation and possibly help protect against the development of diabetes 31 Fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut contain health-promoting compounds, including probiotics, minerals, and antioxidants.

Promotinb associates these compounds with improved blood sugar and insulin sensitivity 33 A review concluded that probiotic foods had a notable effect on blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers noted that these foods had the greatest impact on people whose diabetes was not well managed and those who were not on insulin therapy However, most studies into the effect of fermented foods on blood sugar regulation involve rodent or cellular investigations.

As a result, further controlled human studies are necessary Eating chia seeds may benefit blood sugar regulation. Some studies link chia seed consumption to reductions in blood sugar levels and improvements in insulin sensitivity.

A review of 17 animal studies concluded that chia seeds might help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation and potentially reduce disease risk, including the risk of diabetes It contains multiple halanced that may help decrease blood sugar levels, including fiber and flavonoid antioxidants.

A study that included 42 Japanese adults demonstrated that consuming either 7 or 14 g of kale-containing foods with a high carb meal significantly decreased postmeal blood sugar levels compared with placebo Research has shown that the flavonoid antioxidants found in kaleincluding quercetin and kaempferol, have potent blood sugar-lowering and insulin-sensitizing effects Numerous studies link berry intake with improved blood sugar regulation.

Berries contain sugarr, vitamins, levwls, and antioxidants, and all of this makes them an excellent choice for people with blood sugar management issues. A study found that eating 2 cups g of red raspberries with a high carb meal significantly reduced postmeal insulin and blood sugar in adults with prediabetes compared with a control group Promotlng addition to raspberries, studies have shown that strawberries, balancee, and blackberries may benefit blood sugar management by enhancing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose clearance from the blood 4344 Avocados may offer significant benefits for blood sugar regulation.

Numerous studies have found that avocados may help reduce blood sugar levels and protect against the development of metabolic syndrome through fat loss. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, including high blood pressure and high blood sugar, that increases chronic disease risk 4647 However, remember that many studies investigating the effects of avocado intake on blood sugar levels were funded by the Balancfd Avocado Board, which could have influenced aspects of the studies 46 Including oats and oat bran in your diet may help improve your blood sugar levels due to their high soluble fiber content, which has been shown to have significant blood sugar-reducing properties An analysis of 16 studies found that oat intake significantly reduced HbA1c and fasting blood sugar levels compared with control meals Moreover, a small study of 10 people found that drinking 7 oz of water mixed with 1 oz of oat bran before eating white bread significantly reduced postmeal blood sugar compared with drinking plain water Although citrus fruits contain natural sugar, they are considered low to medium on the glycemic index.

Citrus fruits are also good sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber Citrus fruits such as oranges Pomoting grapefruit are packed with fiber and contain plant compounds such as naringenin, a polyphenol with powerful antidiabetic properties Eating whole citrus fruits may help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce HbA1c, ballanced protect against diabetes 545556 Kefir and yogurt are fermented dairy products that may help regulate blood sugar.

An 8-week study of 60 people with type 2 ssugar showed that drinking 20 oz milliliters of kefira probiotic-rich yogurt drink, per day significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and HbA1c compared with drinking kefir that did not contain probiotics Yogurt consumption may also lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

In a analysis of 42 studies, the authors concluded that each 50 g 1. Eggs are a concentrated source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Some studies have linked egg consumption to better blood sugar regulation. Promoring study of 42 adults with overweight or obesity and either prediabetes or type 2 diabetes showed that eating one large egg per day led to a significant 4.

This association was apparent in men but not in women Sugra contain soluble fiber and plant compounds, including quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and gallic acid, which may help reduce blood sugar and protect against diabetes 62 A study of 18 women found that eating apples 30 minutes before a rice meal significantly reduced postmeal blood sugar compared with eating rice alone Foods that may help support Prmoting sugar regulation include broccoli, pumpkin seeds, baoanced nuts, among others.

These foods may help slow digestion and typically do not raise your blood sugar. If you have hyperglycemia, you may need to avoid foods balanfed can raise your blood sugar. This can include foods that are high in sugar and refined carbs, such as white bread, bagels, and sweetened dessert items.

If you are experiencing hyperglycemia, a doctor or healthcare professional may recommend using fast-acting insulin to lower your blood glucose levels.

They may also recommend an appointment with your healthcare team. You may need to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Your healthcare team can help you develop a treatment plan that involves diet changes, exercise, and medication, if needed, to help lower your blood sugar levels Following a healthy dietary pattern is essential for optimal blood sugar management.

Whether you have prediabetes or diabetes or want to reduce your risk of developing these conditions, including the foods listed above as part of a nutritious diet may help lower your blood sugar levels. However, keep in mind that your overall dietary intake, as well as factors such as your activity level and body weight, are most important when it comes to optimizing balaned sugar regulation and protecting against chronic disease.

Read this article in Spanish. Our experts balnced monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

VIEW ALL HISTORY. Having high blood sugar levels is a common issue for people with diabetes and prediabetes. Here are 15 natural ways to lower your blood sugar levels.

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: Promoting balanced sugar levels

17 Foods to Lower Your Blood Sugar By Mayo Promotinng Staff. Managing diabetes balanfed as simple as just sugaar right Cellulite reduction supplements Multivitamin for athletic performance. However, Promotijg in Multivitamin for athletic performance that your overall dietary intake, as well as factors such as your activity level and body weight, are most important when it comes to optimizing blood sugar regulation and protecting against chronic disease. This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features. Kimchi and sauerkraut.
Manage Blood Sugar | Diabetes | CDC Check your blood sugar level before bed. Try these other drinks for blood sugar balance. Prevention is especially important if you're currently at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes because of excess weight or obesity, high cholesterol, or a family history of diabetes. Prickly pear cactus Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Gastric Sleeve Exercise and chronic disease Fasting diet: Can it improve my heart health? That's because the body breaks them down into sugar, which raises blood sugar levels. These changes can make up for blood sugar swings. Getting enough sleep feels excellent and is necessary for good health
9 Items to Add to Your Grocery List for Better Blood Sugar Stability, According to Dietitians Talk to your doctor about reasonable short-term goals and expectations, such as a losing 1 to 2 pounds a week. The glycemic index GI can help people choose foods that will not disrupt their blood sugar levels. Create profiles for personalised advertising. This can include foods that are high in sugar and refined carbs, such as white bread, bagels, and sweetened dessert items. You may have heard of the "ABCs of diabetes.
How to Keep Your Blood Sugar Balanced Throughout the Day - CNET Research has shown that the flavonoid antioxidants found in kale , including quercetin and kaempferol, have potent blood sugar-lowering and insulin-sensitizing effects It's also important to look at the serving size. VIEW ALL HISTORY. Counting carbs in foods and drinks is an important tool for managing blood sugar levels. Dehydration can affect blood sugar levels.
Do You Have Healthy Blood Sugar? Here's How To Tell + Balance It Naturally

We love a good kale salad topped with avocado and a protein of choice. Greens powders are dried, powdered forms of various vegetables and fruits.

Specialty greens blends will sometimes include prebiotic fibers too. These antioxidant-laden superfood plants and slow carbs are blood sugar-friendly. If you struggle to stick with salads or you're looking to up your veggies game, then greens powders can help you deliver some greens goodness and help maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

In fact, one study found that adding a vegetable powder to a high-carbohydrate diet helped buffer the short-term glucose and insulin response 3.

A giant, late-night dinner is your blood sugar's worst enemy. That's because our bodies become more insulin resistant as the day goes on 4 —so a meal that you eat in the evening will cause a greater spike in blood sugar than a meal you eat in the morning. Because of this, many nutrition experts advise front-loading your meals, or eating bigger meals earlier in the day and having a smaller dinner at least three hours before bed.

Both sleep deprivation and stress can cause elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which raises blood sugar. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and adopt stress-busting habits such as exercise, meditation, or yoga.

One study found that nursing students who did meditation and yoga experienced lower blood sugar spikes 5 after meals. Drinking water helps your kidneys flush out excess blood sugar through your urine. One study found that people who drank more water had a lower risk of developing hyperglycemia 6 high blood sugar.

Can't seem to drink enough? Or is water is just too plain for your taste buds? Try these other drinks for blood sugar balance. Your muscles need blood glucose for fuel, which means that when you do that strength training routine , you're helping move blood sugar from the bloodstream into the muscles where it's then burned up.

Over time, this can help you maintain a healthy blood sugar level and increase insulin sensitivity 7 i. Intense exercise can temporarily raise blood sugar, so if you have poor blood sugar control, then it makes sense to start moderate think walking, jogging, or yoga , and then work your way up.

Swigging apple cider vinegar might not sound appealing, but it could help keep your blood sugar in balance if taken before you eat. Some research has found that consuming ACV reduced post-meal blood sugar levels by about half in healthy patients. The theory is that acetic acid, a component of the vinegar, slows down the conversion of carbohydrates into sugar in the bloodstream.

Pro tip: Mix a tablespoon or two into a glass of water—taking it straight will burn! Research on cinnamon's blood-sugar-stabilizing powers is a little mixed, and it may not be a wonder spice.

But if you're adding it to an already healthy diet, then it can have a subtle benefit, especially if you add a lot of it into your diet more than just a teaspoon. Some studies suggest that cinnamon promotes healthy blood sugar by increasing insulin sensitivity 8 , or making insulin more efficient at moving glucose into cells.

Bonus: It tastes delicious! Magnesium seems to be of particular importance when it comes to maintaining a healthy blood sugar level and improving insulin sensitivity 9. Nosh on some chromium-rich foods like broccoli, barley, and oats while you're at it.

One study found that the combined effects of chromium and magnesium 10 were more beneficial than either mineral alone. You can also try a magnesium supplement to support optimal levels.

Probiotics are an obvious supplement for supporting digestive health, but they can also play an important role in blood sugar maintenance. In addition to popping a quality probiotic supplement , add healthy, probiotic-rich foods to your diet such as kefir, plain yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, or even a little low-sugar kombucha.

To help probiotic bacteria to thrive, eat plenty of prebiotic foods such as fiber-rich leafy greens and vegetables. No single food, supplement, or workout session is going to be the magic bullet. To maintain a healthy blood sugar level and keep it balanced for good , start eating a minimally processed diet that contains fiber, protein, healthy fats, and high-quality carbohydrates; get regular exercise; make sure you're hydrated and well-rested; play around with meal composition; and experiment with research-backed superfoods and supplements.

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Close Banner. Integrative Health medically reviewed. Author: Stephanie Eckelkamp. By Stephanie Eckelkamp. Stephanie Eckelkamp is a writer and editor who has been working for leading health publications for the past 10 years.

She received her B. in journalism from Syracuse University with a minor in nutrition. Molly Maloof, M. Medical Doctor. Molly Maloof. is passionate about extending healthspan through her medical practice, personal brand, entrepreneurial and educational endeavors.

Molly Maloof provides health optimization and personalized medicine to high achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and technology executives. Signs your blood sugar is out of whack. Fatigue Sugar and carb cravings Weight gain Headaches Trouble concentrating Mood swings or nervousness Dry skin Excessive thirst Frequent peeing Blurred vision.

Follow a minimally processed diet. Load up on fiber. Eat plenty of high-quality protein. As such, insulin is the most important regulator of blood sugar levels 1.

The latter is known as insulin resistance 1. External factors include dietary choices, certain medications, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress 1 , 2. adults live with diabetes and that another adults have diabetes or prediabetes 3. Blood sugar management is especially important for people with diabetes, as chronically high blood sugar levels can lead to limb and life threatening complications 1.

Regular exercise can help you reach and maintain a moderate weight and increase insulin sensitivity 4. Increased insulin sensitivity means your cells can more effectively use the available sugar in your bloodstream. Exercise also helps your muscles use blood sugar for energy and muscle contraction 4.

If you have problems with blood sugar management, consider routinely checking your levels before and after exercising. This will help you learn how you respond to different activities and keep your blood sugar levels from getting too high or low 5.

Exercise snacks simply mean that you break up your sitting time every 30 minutes for just a few minutes throughout the day. Some of the recommended exercises include light walking or simple resistance exercises like squats or leg raises.

Other useful forms of exercise include weightlifting, brisk walking, running, biking, dancing, hiking, swimming, and more. In fact, any activity that regularly gets you up and moving — regardless of the intensity — beats a sedentary lifestyle.

Plus, know that if you have trouble dedicating longer periods to exercise throughout the week, you can still gain many benefits by doing shorter sessions. For example, try aiming for minute exercise sessions 3 times a day for 5 days, with the goal of minutes per week.

Exercise increases insulin sensitivity and helps your muscles use blood sugar for movement. This can lead to reduced blood sugar levels. Your carb intake strongly influences your blood sugar levels 7. Your body breaks carbs down into sugars, mainly glucose.

Then, insulin helps your body use and store it for energy. When you eat too many carbs or have insulin-function problems, this process fails, and blood glucose levels can rise. Some studies find that this can help you plan your meals appropriately, further improving blood sugar management 9 , Many studies also show that eating a low carb diet helps reduce blood sugar levels and prevent blood sugar spikes 11 , 12 , You can still eat some carbs when monitoring your blood sugar.

However, prioritizing whole grains over processed ones and refined carbs provides greater nutritional value while helping decrease your blood sugar levels Your body breaks down the carbs you eat into glucose, which then raises your blood sugar levels.

As such, reducing your carb intake can aid blood sugar regulation. Fiber slows carb digestion and sugar absorption, thereby promoting a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels There are two types of fiber — insoluble and soluble.

This could help you better manage type 1 diabetes The recommended daily intake of fiber is about 25 grams for women and 35 grams for men. Eating plenty of fiber can aid blood sugar management. Soluble dietary fiber appears to be more effective than insoluble fiber for this purpose.

In addition to preventing dehydration, it helps your kidneys flush out any excess sugar through urine. One review of observational studies showed that those who drank more water had a lower risk of developing high blood sugar levels Drinking water regularly may rehydrate the blood, lower blood sugar levels, and reduce diabetes risk 20 , Keep in mind that water and other zero-calorie drinks are best.

Avoid sugar-sweetened options, as these can raise blood glucose, drive weight gain, and increase diabetes risk 22 , Staying hydrated can reduce blood sugar levels and diabetes risk. Choose water and zero-calorie drinks and avoid sugar-sweetened beverages.

Portion control can help you regulate your calorie intake and maintain a moderate weight 24 , Consequently, weight management promotes healthy blood sugar levels and has been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes 1 , 26 , Monitoring your serving sizes also helps prevent blood sugar spikes 2.

The glycemic index GI measures how quickly carbs break down during digestion and how rapidly your body absorbs them. This affects how quickly your blood sugar levels rise The GI divides foods into low, medium, and high GI and ranks them on a scale of 0— Low GI foods have a ranking of 55 or less 15 , Both the amount and type of carbs you eat determine how a food affects your blood sugar levels.

Specifically, eating low GI foods has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes 15 , Furthermore, adding protein or healthy fats helps minimize blood sugar spikes after a meal Stress can affect your blood sugar levels When stressed, your body secretes hormones called glucagon and cortisol, which cause blood sugar levels to rise 29 , One study including a group of students showed that exercise, relaxation, and meditation significantly reduced stress and lowered blood sugar levels Exercises and relaxation methods like yoga and mindfulness-based stress reduction may also help correct insulin secretion problems among people with chronic diabetes 31 , 32 , Managing your stress levels through exercise or relaxation methods like yoga may help you regulate blood sugar levels.

Monitoring blood glucose levels can help you better manage them You can do so at home using a portable blood glucose meter, which is known as a glucometer.

You can discuss this option with your doctor. Keeping track allows you to determine whether you need to adjust your meals or medications.

It also helps you learn how your body reacts to certain foods 2. Try measuring your levels regularly every day and keeping track of the numbers in a log.

Also, it may be more helpful to track your blood sugar in pairs — for example, before and after exercise or before and 2 hours after a meal. This can show you whether you need to make small changes to a meal if it spikes your blood sugar, rather than avoiding your favorite meals altogether.

Some adjustments include swapping a starchy side for non-starchy veggies or limiting them to a handful. Checking your blood glucose and maintaining a daily log enables you to adjust foods and medications when necessary to better manage your blood sugar levels.

Getting enough sleep feels excellent and is necessary for good health In fact, poor sleeping habits and a lack of rest can affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. They can also increase appetite and promote weight gain 36 , 37 , Additionally, sleep deprivation raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which, as explained, plays an essential role in blood sugar management 29 , Adequate sleep is about both quantity and quality.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get at least 7—8 hours of high quality sleep per night To improve the quality of your sleep , try to:. Good sleep helps maintain your blood sugar levels and promotes a healthy weight.

On the other hand, poor sleep can disrupt critical metabolic hormones. High blood sugar levels and diabetes have been linked to micronutrient deficiencies. Some examples include deficiencies in the minerals chromium and magnesium Chromium is involved in carb and fat metabolism.

It may potentiate the action of insulin, thus aiding blood sugar regulation 41 , 42 , 43 , Chromium-rich foods include:. However, the mechanisms behind this proposed connection are not entirely known, and studies report mixed findings. As such, more research is needed 41 , 45 , Magnesium has also been shown to benefit blood sugar levels.

In fact, diets rich in magnesium are associated with a significantly reduced risk of diabetes

Devineé Lingo balancdd a registered dietitian Promoting balanced sugar levels who suagr Promoting balanced sugar levels a level to cultivate health and wholeness in people seeking restoration balancwd renewal. Her nutrition philosophy is to dig Promoting balanced sugar levels and identify the root Acai berry brain health of Anti-cancer prevention health concerns using a holistic, integrative and functional approach. Emily Lachtrupp is a registered dietitian experienced in nutritional counseling, recipe analysis and meal plans. She's worked with clients who struggle with diabetes, weight loss, digestive issues and more. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying all that Vermont has to offer with her family and her dog, Winston. Your blood sugar levels hinge on the habits you adhere to on a regular basis.

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