4 Ways to Stabilize Blood Sugar
May 18, 2018
- Use These Tips to Navigate Everyday Situations
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When it comes to managing your blood sugar level, knowing how everyday situations can affect it is important. Use the following scenario-driven tips to learn how to stabilize your blood sugar.
Being Sick
Sometimes an illness can make your blood sugar level fluctuate. Be sure to monitor it regularly, especially if you’re taking a new medication. Talk to your doctor before taking over-the-counter medicines, and be sure to read the labels. For instance, decongestants help clear congestion, but their ingredients can raise blood glucose and blood pressure. Also, some medicinal syrups have added sugar, so you may want to opt for pills.Exercising
While physical activity provides many benefits for people with diabetes, it is important to make sure your blood sugar level doesn’t drop too low. Take a reading before and after you exercise.Eating
Too much food can raise your blood sugar level. So opt for a small plate, and don’t overdo the protein. Divide the plate into three sections: one-quarter protein, one-quarter starchy carbohydrates like pasta or potatoes, and half non-starchy, high-fiber vegetables. Start your meal with the vegetables and you will have a sense of fullness faster.Drinking Alcohol
If you choose to drink alcohol, understand that it has carbohydrates and calories in it, so you should pay attention to the serving size. Be sure to account for your drink in your overall carbohydrate count. It is also important not to drink on an empty stomach.Cheat Sheet: What Affects Blood Sugar?
Raises ItHigh-carb foods, too much food, infections, illnesses, stress, lack of exercise, hormonal changes, forgetting to take your diabetes medicine.Lowers ItSkipping or delaying a meal, exercise, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Diabetes medication may sometimes be a cause.