During an appointment, your health care provider may conduct an A1C test. This blood test shows your average blood sugar level for the past 2 to 3 months. It works by measuring the percentage of blood sugar attached to the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, called hemoglobin. In fact, unsaturated fats have been specifically linked to improved insulin resistance. A 2020 review of 17 animal studies concluded that chia seeds might help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation and potentially reduce disease risk, including the risk of diabetes (37). Some studies link chia seed consumption to reductions in blood sugar levels and improvements in insulin sensitivity.
Fiber is an indigestible carbohydrate naturally found in whole or minimally processed plant foods that don’t raise blood sugar levels. The liver stores glucose to power cells during periods of low blood sugar. Skipping meals and getting inadequate nutrition can lower a person’s blood sugar levels. By storing glucose, the liver ensures the body’s blood glucose levels remain steady between meals and during sleep.
High blood sugar can be very concerning because your body can start burning fat for energy instead of blood glucose. However, instituting lifestyle changes to diabetes may lessen the dose of insulin that is needed to control your blood sugar. It’s always a good idea to talk with your provider about any changes you are making so that they can provide guidance on potential medication dose changes. It’s important for everyone, but especially people with prediabetes and diabetes, to include a nutritious breakfast in their meal plan.
If you have diabetes, monitoring your blood sugar (glucose) is key to finding out how well your current treatment plan is working. It gives you information on how to manage your diabetes on a daily — and sometimes even hourly — basis. Eating a lot of a low-glycemic carbohydrate food will still raise your blood glucose. This is why many people find it’s easier just to limit foods with a lot of carbohydrates by following a low-carb diet.
Dealing with lower blood sugar levels can be challenging, but it is important to know how to adjust and manage this condition effectively. Whether you are managing diabetes or simply experiencing fluctuations in your blood sugar levels, there are several strategies you can use to help stabilize your levels and feel better overall.
If your ketones are high, call your health care provider right away. Your blood sugar targets may be different depending on your age, any additional health problems you have, and other factors. Be sure to talk to your health care team about which targets are best for you. How often you check your blood sugar depends on the type of diabetes you have and if you take any diabetes medicines. Use a blood sugar meter (also called a glucometer) or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to check your blood sugar. A blood sugar meter measures the amount of sugar in a small sample of blood, usually from your fingertip.
One review of observational studies showed that those who drank more water had a lower risk of developing high blood sugar levels (19). If you have problems with blood sugar management, consider routinely checking your levels before and after exercising. This will help you learn how you respond to different activities and keep your blood sugar levels from getting too high or low (5).
Understanding the symptoms of low blood sugar
It is crucial to recognize the symptoms of low blood sugar so that you can take action promptly. Some common signs include:
- Sweating
- Shakiness
- Dizziness
- Hunger
- Irritability
- Fatigue
Tips for adjusting to lower blood sugar levels
- Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly: By keeping track of your levels, you can make adjustments to your diet and lifestyle as needed.
- Eat small, frequent meals: Consuming smaller meals throughout the day can help maintain steady blood sugar levels.
- Include protein and fiber in your meals: Protein and fiber can help slow down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream.
- Carry glucose tablets or snacks with you: Having quick sources of sugar on hand can help raise your blood sugar levels if they drop too low.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water can help prevent dehydration, which can worsen low blood sugar levels.
By following these tips and staying proactive about managing your blood sugar levels, you can adjust to lower levels more effectively and improve your overall health and well-being.
