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4 Ways to Stabilize Blood Sugar

May 18, 2018
Use These Tips to Navigate Everyday Situations

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 It
High-carb foods, too much food, infections, illnesses, stress, lack of exercise, hormonal changes, forgetting to take your diabetes medicine.
 
Lowers It
Skipping or delaying a meal, exercise, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Diabetes medication may sometimes be a cause.

 

 
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