High blood sugar typically refers to levels over 180 mg/dL. Trusted Source. However, a person may not experience diabetes symptoms until the levels exceed 200 mg/dL Trusted Source. As such, it is essential for a person with diabetes to check their blood sugar several times a day. Doing so should mean that blood sugar levels never get excessively high.

A person with diabetes can use an at-home glucose monitor to check their blood sugar levels. One option is a continuous glucose monitor, which is a medical device that easily enables someone to check their blood sugar levels.

The recommended number of times to check glucose levels during the day will vary from person to person. A doctor can make the best recommendations regarding the testing frequency.

 

 

A low-carb diet limits the amount of carbohydrates a person consumes. Carbs raise blood glucose more than other foods, and evidence suggests that a low-carb dietary pattern may help Trusted Source a person stabilize and manage their blood sugars.

However, this type of eating pattern may be unsuitable for some people and be difficult to maintain in the long term. Therefore, before reducing their carbohydrate intake, a person may wish to consult a healthcare professional or a dietitian.

 

 

There are three main types Trusted Source of carbs:

 

• sugars

 

• starches

 

• fiber

 

 

Sugars and starches raise blood sugar levels, but fiber does not cause a blood sugar spike, as the body is unableTrusted Source to absorb and break down this type of carb. As such, people may consider including carbs that are richer in fiber in their diet.

People may also refer to sugars and starches as simple and complex carbs. Simple carbs primarily consist of one type of sugar. The body breaks these carbohydrates down very quickly, which causes blood sugar to rise rapidly. Complex carbohydrates consist of three or more sugars that are linked together. They result in a more gradual release of sugar into the body, meaning blood sugar levels do not rise rapidly after a person eats them.

Some people may use the glycemic index (GI) to help them monitor how much sugar and carbohydrate they eat, which will, in turn, help them manage their blood sugar levels. The GI measures and ranks various foods by how much they cause blood sugar levels to rise.

Low GI foods describe those that score 55 or lower on the GI index. These foods include:

 

• sweet potatoes

 

• quinoa

 

• legumes

 

• low-fat milk

 

• leafy greens

 

• nonstarchy vegetables

 

• nuts and seeds

 

• meat

 

• fish

 

 

 

 

Maintaining a moderate weight can help Trusted Source a person better manage their diabetes. The ideal weight range for a person varies among individuals, but a doctor can help provide guidance.

EvidenceTrusted Source notes a link between obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research also highlights the relationship between obesity and insulin resistance. Insulin is the hormone responsible for allowing glucose in the blood to enter cells.

 

 

At most meals, a person needs to follow portion guidelines (Trusted Source). Eating a suitable portion size can make managing weight and controlling blood sugar levels easier. Many factors, such as weight, body composition, and activity levels, play a role in determining the ideal portion sizes, according to Diabetes UK.

A doctor or dietitian can offer more specific advice on appropriate portion sizes for a person.

6. Exercise regularly

Exercise has many health benefits and can help a person manage their blood sugar levels.

Notably, exercise can help by increasing insulin sensitivity, allowing muscle cells to use the hormone more effectively to take up glucose and use it for energy. This can help lower blood sugar in the short term. In the long term, regular exercise can help lower a person’s A1C test result.

 

 

Proper hydration is crucial for health and can help a person control their blood sugar levels.

Dehydration is the term for the body having less water than it requires. It can cause trusted sources of ofblood sugar levels to spike, as less water in the body means there is a higher concentration of sugar in the blood. Therefore, taking on more fluids can help lower blood sugar.

However, it is important to hydrate with water, as other beverages — such as fruit juices and sodas — can cause blood glucose to increase further.

 

 

Some people may consider using herbal supplements to help control their blood sugar.

According to Diabetes UK, while some research suggests that herbal supplements may have a positive effect, more evidence is necessary to support these claims. Additionally, some herbs can interact with other medications and result in side effects. As such, a person needs to discuss any supplements with a doctor before taking them.

Some supplements that may help include:

 

• certain teas

 

• ashwagandha

 

• ginseng

 

• fenugreek

 

• turmeric

 

• bitter melon

 

• cinnamon

 

 

 

 

Stress has a significant effect on blood sugar levels. The body releases stress hormones when it is under tension, such as when a person is ill or experiencing emotional stress, and these hormones can raise blood sugar levels.

Evidence notes that managing stress through exercise and allowing time for rest and relaxation can help lower blood sugar levels.

10. Get enough sleep

Getting adequate sleep can help with diabetes management. Evidence indicates that most adults should aim for 7 or more hours of sleep per night.

Insufficient sleep can have various effects on the body, including Trusted Source:

 

• increasing insulin resistance

 

• increasing hunger

 

• causing cravings for foods high in carbs and sugar

 

• making it more difficult to maintain a moderate weight

 

• raising blood pressure

 

• impairing the ability of the immune system to fight infection

 

• increasing the risk of depression and anxiety
  
  
  

  Summary

  
  
  
  
  
  
  Managing blood sugar levels to prevent hyperglycemia is vital to avoid serious complications from diabetes. A range of lifestyle interventions can help a person lower their blood sugar levels and keep them within the target range. Individuals can also work with their diabetes healthcare team to plan strategies and targets.