When an individual suffers from type 1 or type 2 diabetes, risky spikes in blood glucose (severe hyperglycemia) may mean he or she is required to lower blood sugar levels instantly. If they don’t, it may potentially cause life-threatening complications. A few main hyperglycemia symptoms include frequent urination, extreme thirst, and nausea.
Normal blood sugar levels are less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) after not eating (fasting) for at least 8 hours. And they’re less than 140 mg/dL 2 hours after eating.
What level of blood sugar is dangerous?
Broadly speaking, a blood glucose level of 180 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) is very high, however any blood glucose level (BGL) above your target range is cause of concern. Your doctor should tell you what is the upper limit is, as it vary for people to people.
There are many ways and norms that may help you in improving your blood sugar levels. They may also help lower the chance of complications associated with diabetes, such as:
1. Taking prescribed medication or insulin
Taking your prescribed insulin or oral diabetes medicine as directed by your doctor is essential for keeping blood levels healthy. Follow their suggestions for dose changes if needed. Always consult them if you face any problems or side effects from your drugs.
Insulin timing and dosages
Your doctor will decide the correct insulin dosage and timing based on your blood sugar levels, individual levels and lifestyle. Ensure that you follow their guidance consciously and adjust your dosage as required under their supervision.
Diabetes medications
Oral diabetes drugs like sulfonylureas, metformin, and DPP-4 inhibitors could also be prescribed by your doctor. These drugs work by increasing insulin sensitivity, aiding glucose absorption and boosting insulin production. Every time you take these drugs, as guided by your doctor.
2. Involvement in physical activity
Regular exercise is instrumental in managing health blood sugar levels. It enables your body to use insulin more effectively and amplifies glucose breakdown.
Aerobic exercises
Aerobic exercises such as stair climbing, walking, running, cycling, or swimming can cut down sugar levels. They do this by increasing insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. As suggested by the American Diabetes Association, involve 150 minutes of medium-intensity aerobic activity each week.
Resistance training
Resistance training, such as weight lifting, can manage blood sugar levels by building muscle mass and elevating your body’s insulin sensitivity. Aim for two resistance training sessions per week on separate days.
Effect of different exercise intensities
Your workout intensity can mould your blood sugar levels. Higher intesity athletics may require more particular blood sugar control and tracking, on the other hand medium intensity workout are normally safe and helpful for all diabetes patients. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise.
3. Altering food intake
Conscious eating can significantly impact your blood sugar levels. Consider including healthier choices in your meals, like whole grains, vegetables, fruits and lean proteins.
Low glycemic index foods
Consuming low glycemic index foods can assist in regulating your blood sugar levels. They result in a steady and slow glucose release into your bloodstream.
The following are examples of foods with low glycemic index:
- Legumes
- Whole grains
- Certain fruits
- Vegetables
- Nuts
Fibre-filled foods
Fibre-rich foods like fruits, whole grains and veggies can balance blood sugar levels. They perform this by slowing digestion and glucose absorption.
Correct portion sizes
Proper portion sizes also assist in managing your blood sugar levels. Too much consumption can increase blood sugar, however not eating enough can drop blood sugar or cause hypoglycemia.
4. Remaining properly hydrated
Proper hydration is essential for keeping blood sugar levels healthy. Drinking water throughout the day can assist your kidneys in flushing out excess sugar via urine. It also avoids dehydration, which can negatively impact blood sugar control.
Water intake recommendations
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends a daily water intake of roughly 2.7 litres for women and 3.7 litres for men. Nevertheless, individual hydration requirements can differ based on multiple factors such as age, activity level, weight and climate.
5. Avoiding sugary beverages
Sweet drinks like juice, soda and sports drinks can create rapid surges in blood sugar levels and result in weight gain. Instead, choose water, herbal tea, or other zero-calorie beverages.
Monitoring blood sugar levels
Regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels is a significant component of diabetes management. It enables you to make changes to your exercise, diet, and medication regimen to manage your blood sugar levels.
Regular blood sugar testing
Check your blood sugar levels consistently, as advised by your doctor. This may include testing before and after meals, before and after exercising, and during bedtime.
If you find that your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, consult your doctor for guidance on altering your diabetes management plan.
Making required adjustments
Depending on your blood sugar date, your doctor may recommend changes to your diet, medication regimen and exercise routine. This may assist you in managing your blood sugar levels.
When to see a doctor?
Contact your doctor for directions if you have:
- Frequent urination
- Consistently high blood sugar readings
- High levels of sugar in the urine
- Increased thirst
What is the best thing to eat when your blood sugar is high?
Incorporating the following foods in ideal proportions, along with regular physical activity, can assist you in managing your blood sugar levels. You can seek help from your doctor or nutritionist to design a healthy meal plan.
Vegetables:
- Green peas
- Onions
- Lettuce
- Cabbage
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Bok choy
- Artichokes
- Leafy greens such as spinach, collards, and kale
- Green beans
- Peppers
- Zucchini
- Crookneck squash
- Snow peas
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Eggplant
Fruits:
- Apples
- Pears
- Plum
- Avocado
- Olives
- Oranges
- Cherries
- Coconut
- Dried apricots
- Unripe banana
- Peaches
- Strawberries
- Grapefruit
- Blueberries
- Cranberries
Whole or minimally processed grains:
- Barley
- Whole wheat
- Oat bran and rice bran cereals
- Whole grain pasta
- Whole-grain pumpernickel bread
- Sourdough bread
- Wheat tortilla
- Eggs and egg whites
- Fish and shellfish
- Nuts and seeds, which can be eaten as snacks
- Poultry such as chicken and turkey
- Oils such as extra virgin olive oil and canola oil
- Spices such as cinnamon and supplements such as apple cider vinegar
Dairy and dairy-substitute products:
- Cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Milk
- Plain yoghurt
- Soy milk and yoghurt
Summary
You can reduce blood sugars instantly with rapid-acting insulin, taking missed doses of oral medications like sulfonylureas or megalitnides, and drinking water.
