If you already have diabetes, it is not too late to take steps to treat it or even improve your blood sugar levels. There are various ways in which you can manage diabetes and reduce blood sugar levels.
1. Maintain a healthy diet
A balanced diet is one of the most effective methods to treat diabetes. Avoid sugary and processed meals and instead focus on complete, unprocessed foods high in fibre. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats in your diet. Furthermore, portion management is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
2. Maintain physical activity
Diabetes management requires regular exercise. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling, can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels. On most days of the week, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise.
3. Keep a healthy weight
Losing extra weight can enhance insulin sensitivity and help in diabetes management. Adopting a balanced diet and exercising on a regular basis can result in weight reduction and improved blood sugar management.
4. Reduce carbohydrate consumption
Carbohydrates are turned into sugar during digestion, causing blood glucose levels to rise. Consume complex carbs such as whole grains and legumes instead of refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pastries, and sugary beverages. To minimise extreme blood sugar variations, keep track of your carbohydrate consumption and spread it out evenly throughout the day.
5. Control your stress levels
Chronic stress might cause blood sugar levels to rise. Find healthy strategies to cope with stress, such as mindfulness, yoga, deep breathing techniques, or engaging in hobbies that help you relax. Get enough sleep and prioritise self-care activities to reduce stress levels.