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. Links which take you out of Abbott worldwide websites are not under the control of Abbott, and Abbott is not responsible for the contents of any such site or any further links from such site. Abbott is providing these links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement of the linked site by Abbott. Stash a few Glucerna® shakes or mini treats in your bag or desk drawer so you’ll always have a snack on hand to help you through a busy day. Top a bowl of unsweetened Greek yogurt with some berries and nuts. There has been a great deal of research published looking to decipher the best proportion of macronutrients per individual.
If you are looking to lower your A1C levels, incorporating certain foods into your diet can be a great way to help manage your blood sugar. Here are some key foods to consider:
These problems include a high blood sugar level, called hyperglycemia. If this high level lasts for a long time, it may lead to long-term complications, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage. In fact, high-fat meals have been shown to impair insulin sensitivity in people with type 1 diabetes, as well as delay emptying of food from the stomach in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. While foods that contain carbs have the most impact on blood sugar levels, eating too much of any kind of food can raise blood sugars.
The more time the food takes to digest, the less it affects blood glucose levels. Food items with simple sugars have been digested considerably faster and certainly will spike blood glucose levels. If you eat properly these Foods to lower a1c will lower your a1c levels. Get ready for a healthy dose of protein when adding Greek yogurt to your meals. Not only can a cup of yogurt help to meet your daily protein needs but it can help regulate blood sugars when paired with a carbohydrate. They have been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure in people with Type 2 diabetes.
1. Berries
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and fiber, making them a great choice for lowering A1C levels.
But if your doctor has prescribed medication, such as metformin, miglitol, or insulin, it’s important to take them exactly as prescribed. If you miss doses regularly, your blood sugar numbers may creep up and cause your A1c to rise. But if you follow the medication plan that your doctor recommends and go to every appointment, your blood sugar should stay under control — and your lower A1c number will reflect that. If your goal is to cut down on, or even stop needing, your meds, tell your doctor that you want to work toward that.
Additionally, people can try following the ADA’s Diabetes Plate Method. Tips for lowering A1C levels include dietary choices and exercise, as well as monitoring blood glucose regularly and following the treatment plan agreed with a doctor. Carb foods provide essential nutrients that you won’t get from other foods. The guidelines for what to put on your plate give you a lot of flexibility.
2. Leafy greens
A study of 18 women found that eating apples 30 minutes before a rice meal significantly reduced postmeal blood sugar compared with eating rice alone (64). 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). Moreover, a review of 25 controlled studies found that eating whole flaxseed led to significant improvements in blood sugar regulation (29). A small 2018 study with 40 participants found that consuming 2 oz (65 g) of pumpkin seeds reduced postmeal blood sugar by up to 35% compared with a control group (20). Brightly colored and packed with fiber and antioxidants, pumpkin is a great choice for blood sugar regulation.
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are low in carbohydrates and high in important nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K. They can help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
3. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They can help regulate blood sugar and improve overall heart health.
4. Whole grains
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats are high in fiber and essential nutrients. They have a lower glycemic index compared to refined grains, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
5. Lean proteins
Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu can help control blood sugar levels and promote satiety. They are low in saturated fat and can be a healthy addition to a diabetes-friendly diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I still enjoy sweets while trying to lower my A1C?
A: While it’s important to limit sugary treats, you can opt for healthier alternatives like dark chocolate or fruit-based desserts in moderation.
Q: Are there any foods I should avoid when trying to lower my A1C?
A: Foods high in added sugars, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats should be limited to help manage blood sugar levels.
By incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into your diet and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can work towards lowering your A1C levels and improving your overall health.
