Steps to Control Blood Sugar Levels

Introduction

Hyperglycemia is a chronic condition in which the body has high blood sugar. It occurs due to insufficient insulin production in the body, which leads to the accumulation of glucose in the blood, thereby raising its levels. Once diagnosed with diabetes, the condition requires periodic monitoring to keep the sugar levels normal. Uncontrolled hyperglycemia for longer periods can affect the functioning of various organs like the eyes, heart, and kidneys, thereby leading to complications.

What Are the Steps That Help Reduce Blood Sugar Levels Immediately?

There are simple steps that, when followed effectively, can help people with hyperglycemia manage their blood sugars and also reduce them quickly. The below methods can be tried to reduce blood sugars fast, that include:

• Taking Insulin: A spike in blood sugar occurs when either sufficient insulin is not produced in the body or the insulin produced cannot be used by the body’s cells. A doctor may recommend insulin injections to lower high blood sugar levels along with medications. The types and frequency of use of long-acting insulins can be discussed with the doctor. Also, the blood glucose levels must be checked after 15 to 30 minutes to check if the levels are not going too low.

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• Exercise: Another fast and easy way to reduce blood sugar levels is exercise. Exercise helps in maintaining glucose levels for up to 24 hours if activities related to increased heart pumping are done. This may include even a simple brisk walk. After an exercise, there is an increase in demand for glucose by the cells and tissues, thereby quickly lowering the glucose levels in the body. People having a blood sugar level above 240 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) must check for ketones in the urine. In case the ketones are detected, exercising must be avoided as there is a chance of a rise in blood sugar. Sometimes, strenuous activity can transiently increase sugar levels due to the release of the stress hormone, which increases the availability of blood sugar to the muscles.

• Drinking Water: Water plays a pivotal role in managing hyperglycemia. It helps the body excrete excess glucose, thereby controlling the blood sugar. Intake of water and unsweetened fluids helps flush out the excess glucose from the body. Drinking an insufficient quantity of water can cause dehydration, as whatever water is available in the body also gets excreted to remove the excess glucose. In the case of exercise, water that gets depleted has to be replenished to maintain a balance in the body. However, when taking certain medications that retain water in the body, the intake of water quantity must be controlled. A healthcare provider can give better advice on the water intake in people based on their needs and conditions.

• Managing the Missed Medication: Diabetics may be advised medications that include a combination of anti-diabetic medications and insulin, either both or any one of them, based on the patient’s health status. Care must be taken to take the medications on time, and in case of missed doses, the dose must be skipped, and the next immediate dose must be taken as advised by the doctor. An extra dose for the skipped dose should not be taken as it can cause severe adverse effects. In case the dose of a particular medicine has been skipped for some time, it is recommended to consult a doctor for a better assessment and a concerning treatment plan.

What Are the Tips to Lead a Healthy Life With Diabetes?

The below tips can help in keeping the blood sugars in control and reducing spikes. They include:

1. Eating a Consistent Diet: Diet plays an important role in managing blood sugar levels in diabetics. They must take small, healthy meals every two hours to keep up with their blood sugars and medicines. This helps avoid major fluctuations in blood sugar levels. It is pivotal to take a steady carbohydrate diet that does not include “empty calories” like those in processed foods. A diet rich in fiber helps in keeping blood sugars within limits. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats constitute a balanced diet.

2. Getting Regular Exercise: Along with reducing excess fat in the body and keeping the heart healthy, simple exercises like brisk walking or cycling have a multitude of benefits. One important benefit is keeping the blood sugars under control and helping the body cells to use insulin more efficiently. Daily physical activity for 30 minutes per day on at least five days a week is recommended.

3. Reducing Stress: Stress is a culprit that can lead to various unfavorable conditions in the body. Managing stress prevents blood sugars from rising. Meditation, listening to music, journaling, going for a short walk in nature, or cooking a meal are stress busters that have to be followed regularly.

4. Staying Hydrated: Staying hydrated means drinking sufficient water and clear fluids. If the color of the urine is yellow, it indicates that a person is dehydrated. Also, diabetic patients must ensure to avoid too many sugary drinks or sugar-loaded soft drinks.

5. Getting Adequate Sleep: Doctors recommend getting at least seven to eight hours of sound sleep every night. Quality sleep helps reduce stress and also balances blood sugar levels. In addition, switching off electronic devices one to two hours before sleep, taking a warm shower, and sleeping in a quiet, dark room can be soothing and help catch up on a good night’s sleep.

6. Regular Doctor Appointments: Checking the blood sugars at periodic intervals with an HbA1c test, which gives an average of blood sugars for three months, and going for regular checkups help maintain the blood sugars within range and reduce the risk of complications.

7. Managing Weight: Excess weight can alter the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels. Reducing weight by following the doctor’s advice and taking a dietician’s advice in following a balanced diet can help manage weight.

8. Sticking With the Treatment Regimen: Missing insulin dosage or medications can elevate the blood sugar. Care must be taken to take the prescribed medicines at appropriate times. Also, the dosage of medicines or insulin injections must not be altered without a doctor’s advice.

Conclusion:

Diagnosed with diabetes, its course of treatment, and its complications can be overwhelming. However, following simple steps like keeping up with doctor appointments, having a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising, and managing weight can help in managing blood sugars and maintaining them within range. This thereby helps in leading a healthy and happy life.