Show Diabetes management requires awareness. Know what makes your blood sugar level rise and fall — and how to control these day-to-day factors. By Mayo Clinic StaffKeeping your blood sugar levels within the range recommended by your doctor can be challenging. That's because many things make your blood sugar levels change, sometimes unexpectedly. Following are some factors that can affect your blood sugar levels. FoodHealthy eating is a cornerstone of healthy living — with or without diabetes. But if you have diabetes, you need to know how foods affect your blood sugar levels. It's not only the type of food you eat, but also how much you eat and the combinations of food types you eat. What to do:
ExercisePhysical activity is another important part of your diabetes management plan. When you exercise, your muscles use sugar (glucose) for energy. Regular physical activity also helps your body use insulin more efficiently. These factors work together to lower your blood sugar level. The more strenuous your workout, the longer the effect lasts. But even light activities — such as housework, gardening or being on your feet for extended periods — can improve your blood sugar. What to do:
MedicationInsulin and other diabetes medications are designed to lower your blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone aren't sufficient for managing diabetes. But the effectiveness of these medications depends on the timing and size of the dose. Medications you take for conditions other than diabetes also can affect your blood sugar levels. What to do:
IllnessWhen you're sick, your body produces stress-related hormones that help your body fight the illness, but they also can raise your blood sugar level. Changes in your appetite and normal activity also may complicate diabetes management. What to do:
AlcoholThe liver normally releases stored sugar to counteract falling blood sugar levels. But if your liver is busy metabolizing alcohol, your blood sugar level may not get the boost it needs from your liver. Alcohol can result in low blood sugar shortly after you drink it and for as long as 24 hours afterward. What to do:
Menstruation and menopauseChanges in hormone levels the week before and during menstruation can result in significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels. What to do:
Most forms of birth control can be used by women with diabetes without a problem. However, oral contraceptives may raise blood sugar levels in some women. StressIf you're stressed, the hormones your body produces in response to prolonged stress may cause a rise in your blood sugar level. Additionally, it may be harder to closely follow your usual diabetes management routine if you're under a lot of extra pressure. What to do:
The more you know about factors that influence your blood sugar level, the more you can anticipate fluctuations — and plan accordingly. If you're having trouble keeping your blood sugar level in your target range, ask your diabetes health care team for help. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with other information we have about you. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could include protected health
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. What foods can lower blood sugar quickly?The 17 Best Foods to Lower (or Regulate) Your Blood Sugar. Broccoli and broccoli sprouts. Sulforaphane is a type of isothiocyanate that has blood-sugar-reducing properties. ... . Seafood. ... . Pumpkin and pumpkin seeds. ... . Nuts and nut butter. ... . Okra. ... . Flax seeds. ... . Beans and lentils. ... . Kimchi and sauerkraut.. How do I lower my blood sugar immediately?When your blood sugar level gets too high — known as hyperglycemia or high blood glucose — the quickest way to reduce it is to take fast-acting insulin. Exercising is another fast, effective way to lower blood sugar.. whole grains.. fruits.. vegetables.. lean proteins.. What drink lowers blood sugar?Whether you're at home or at a restaurant, here are the most diabetes-friendly beverage options.. Water. When it comes to hydration, water is the best option for people with diabetes. ... . Seltzer water. ... . Tea. ... . Herbal tea. ... . Unsweetened coffee. ... . Vegetable juice. ... . Low fat milk. ... . Milk alternatives.. |