When it comes to managing diabetes, one of the key factors to pay attention to is your blood sugar levels. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, it is important to keep your blood sugar within a healthy range to prevent complications.
The time it takes to lower your blood sugar can vary depending on a number of factors:
Review the full Ozempic information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider. However, reducing your A1C below 7 may take at least 8 weeks, depending upon where your hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) is when you start Ozempic. In a 56-week study comparing semaglutide to sitagliptin, Ozempic lowered the mean baseline A1C of 8% down to 7% by week 8 of the study.
Your health care team can help you decide which method fits best for you. Insulin is a prescription medication that transports glucose from your blood into your cells. Once the glucose is in your cells, you can use it for fuel if you need it or your cells can store it for use later. There are different types depending on the time it takes to kick in, be at its most effective, and wear off. A moderate-paced walk, cycling, or strength training can lower your blood sugar level up to 24 hours after your activity. Meditation and yoga are other methods that may help lower blood sugar, according to data from 28 randomized controlled trials.
Doctors consider type 2 diabetes to be in remission if your blood sugar levels remain in range for at least 3 months without the use of glucose-lowering medications. Avocados may offer significant benefits for blood sugar regulation. They’re rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and adding them to meals may improve blood sugar management.
Type of Diabetes:
For individuals with type 1 diabetes, lowering blood sugar levels may happen more quickly with the use of insulin. On the other hand, those with type 2 diabetes may need to rely on lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to see a decrease in their blood sugar levels.
Some diabetes medicines, such as sulfonylureas or insulin, may make your blood glucose level drop too low during exercise or if you skip or delay a meal. If you take insulin or certain diabetes medicines, drinking alcohol can make your blood glucose level drop too low, which is called hypoglycemia. If you do drink alcohol, be sure to eat food when you drink and remember to check your blood glucose level after drinking. Talk with your health care team about your alcohol-drinking habits. Sometimes this will include checking the ketones (acids) in your urine, especially if your blood sugar level is higher than 240 milligrams a deciliter and is not coming down.
Current Blood Sugar Level:
If your blood sugar levels are very high, it may take longer to bring them down to a healthy range. Consistently monitoring your blood sugar levels and making necessary adjustments can help speed up this process.
Treatment Plan:
By Angela Ryan Lee, MDAngela Ryan Lee, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular diseases and internal medicine. She is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology and holds board certifications from the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the National Board of Echocardiography. She completed undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia with a B.S. In Biology, medical school at Jefferson Medical College, and internal medicine residency and cardiovascular diseases fellowship at the George Washington University Hospital. Her professional interests include preventive cardiology, medical journalism, and health policy. Eating whole citrus fruits may help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce HbA1c, and protect against diabetes (54, 55, 56, 57).
Following your healthcare provider’s treatment plan is crucial in managing your blood sugar levels. This may include taking medication as prescribed, monitoring your carbohydrate intake, and staying physically active.
So, how long can it take to lower your blood sugar?
It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The time it takes to lower your blood sugar levels can vary based on individual circumstances. However, making healthy choices consistently can help you maintain stable blood sugar levels over time.
