There are things you can do to keep your blood sugar in check and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. All you need to do is make some small, everyday changes. Check out these 4 natural ways to reduce high blood sugar:
1. Eat foods low on the glycemic index
Some foods are more likely to cause high blood sugar than others are. For example, foods that are high on the glycemic index, such as white rice and white bread, create larger spikes in blood sugar. In comparison, foods that are low on the glycemic index, such as brown rice and whole grain bread, cause smaller spikes in blood sugar. As a result, you can keep your blood sugar more stable over time by swapping high glycemic index foods with low glycemic index foods. In addition to reducing high blood sugar, low glycemic index foods may also lower your risk of heart disease and cancer.
2. Consume fibre-rich foods
Your body breaks down foods that are high in fibre more slowly than foods that are low in fibre. For this reason, you can reduce high blood sugar by adding more fibre to your diet. Scientists have found that soluble fibre, found in fruits, oats, and beans, is particularly good at lowering blood sugar levels. Aside from decreasing your risk of developing diabetes, fibre-rich diets can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of heart disease. Boost the fibre content of your diet by adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts to meals and snacks.
3. Increase physical activity
Reducing high blood sugar levels isn’t all about making healthy changes to your diet. It’s also about adding regular physical activity to your daily routine. Research shows that exercising regularly can lower your blood sugar. But that’s not all. It can also increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin, the hormone that keeps your blood sugar levels in check. To maximize the benefits you get from working out, do a mix of cardio and strength training activities.
4. Add Ceylon cinnamon to your diet
You may think of cinnamon as a spice you add to baked goods and roasted vegetables. But cinnamon does more than add a sweet taste to foods. According to scientific research, it can help you keep your blood sugar under control. When they reviewed 16 studies, researchers found evidence that Ceylon cinnamon regulated blood sugar levels and increased sensitivity to insulin. That’s why it’s considered to be a promising supplement to help manage symptoms of diabetes.