They’ll likely want you to make an appointment to go over treatment and lifestyle options for better managing your illness. If you miss a dose of your diabetes medication, take it as soon as you remember. But don’t double-up by taking your missed medication too closely to your next scheduled dose. If your BGL doesn’t drop right away, or doesn’t come down as fast as you’d like, resist the urge to take more insulin too soon, as it could lead to hypoglycemia. Rapid-acting insulin may start working in 15 minutes, or it may take up to an hour. There, you either use it for fuel right away or your cells store it for later when you don’t have enough ready energy to meet demands.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important to keep your blood sugar levels in check. One way to do this is by making healthier food choices. Here are some things to eat to lower A1C levels:
It’s important to keep track of the amount of carbohydrates in each meal or snack. Nuts are full of unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats), which are generally considered healthy fats. Research has shown that unsaturated fatty acids may help control blood sugar through reduced insulin resistance. If you need help understanding exactly what you should and shouldn’t eat, take a close look at a Mediterranean-style diet. This type of eating plan is especially likely to help get your blood sugar levels back on track. A 2021 review concluded that probiotic foods had a notable effect on blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes.
When you have diabetes, you probably know you should check your blood sugar regularly. Your doctor will also recommend that you take an A1c blood test a few times a year, with a goal of lowering the results to help protect your health. A person with prediabetes has a good chance of reversing their high blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes from developing. Shrimp and other types of low-mercury seafood provide important nutrients for pregnant people and their babies. Shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, iron, iodine, and choline. Eating shrimp while pregnant may contribute to your baby’s cognitive development and heart health.
The A1C test estimates the average blood glucose level over the past 3 months. The test can measure this by identifying the percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood. The test measures this period because RBCs typically live for about 3 months.
What you choose to eat and drink can have a major impact on your waistline, mood, and well-being, as well as your blood sugar levels. When planning meals, take into account your size and activity level. The following menu is for someone who needs 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day. Being diagnosed with prediabetes means you’re on your way to developing Type 2 diabetes, a disease that greatly increases your risk of heart attack and other serious health issues. Apples contain soluble fiber and plant compounds, including quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and gallic acid, which may help reduce blood sugar and protect against diabetes (62, 63).
Low-glycemic fruits are sweet without causing a blood sugar spike. Most fruits naturally have a low glycemic index because of the fructose and fiber they contain. Apples, pears, oranges, berries, and grapefruit are some examples.
Everyone, especially people with diabetes, can benefit from a healthful diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole foods and is low in sugar, salt, and fat. For example, sources of carbs like bread, pasta, and fruit affect blood sugar more than sources of protein or fat. On the other hand, cholesterol-containing fat sources, such as dairy and meat, have a greater effect on cholesterol than on blood sugar. If your blood sugar is above 240 mg/dL, check your ketone levels and don’t exercise if they’re elevated. Exercise can increase ketone levels, which can raise blood sugars and put you at a greater risk of ketoacidosis.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Foods high in fiber can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds in your diet for better A1C control.
Healthy Fats
Opt for sources of healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats can help reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar control, leading to lower A1C levels.
Lean Proteins
Include lean proteins such as chicken, fish, tofu, and beans in your meals. Protein can help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.
Low-Glycemic Index Foods
Foods with a low glycemic index release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Some examples include sweet potatoes, quinoa, and legumes.
Limit Processed Foods
Avoid foods high in refined sugars and carbohydrates, as they can cause blood sugar levels to spike. Instead, focus on whole, unprocessed foods to help lower your A1C.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent dehydration, which can impact A1C levels. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water per day.
By incorporating these foods to eat to lower A1C levels into your diet, you can better manage your diabetes and improve your overall health. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
