Also, they’re low in carbohydrates, which makes them a great option for people with blood sugar issues. A low-carb diet can help reduce the amount of blood sugar-lowering medication that people with diabetes need to achieve a healthy blood sugar, and in some cases, even help put diabetes into remission. Ripe fruits tend to have a higher glycemic index than less ripe fruits.
They also contain an antioxidant called quercetin, which provides anti-inflammatory properties. It’s important for everyone, but especially people with prediabetes and diabetes, to include a nutritious breakfast in their meal plan. Healthy food items like oatmeal, unsweetened yogurt with fruit, and eggs can be part of a healthy breakfast. “Some foods considered as low glycemic index foods could potentially cause a spike in one’s blood sugar quicker than it would another person,” Adimoolam says.
Managing your blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes. One important metric to monitor is your A1C level, which reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can help lower your A1C quickly and improve your overall health.
Foods to Include in Your Diet
If you eat properly these Foods to lower a1c will lower your a1c levels. Maintaining a moderate weight promotes healthy blood sugar levels and reduces your risk of developing diabetes (2, 26, 27, 59). Blood sugar management is especially important for people with diabetes, as chronically high blood sugar levels can lead to limb and life threatening complications (1).
These are some of the best foods to lower A1C quickly:
Nuts and seeds are a nutritious snack that can help to regulate blood sugar levels. Smoking has many negative health effects that include heart disease, cancer, and early death. The nicotine in cigarettes and e-cigarettes increases blood sugar, and people with diabetes who smoke often require higher doses of medication to keep blood sugar in check. Quitting smoking can help lower blood sugar, improve heart and lung health, and add years to your life. Chia may help reduce blood glucose levels by converting the glucose into complex carbs, which also helps you feel fuller for longer.
- Leafy Green Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Whole Grains: Foods like quinoa, brown rice, and oats are high in fiber and have a low glycemic index, making them ideal choices for managing blood sugar.
- Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes are excellent sources of protein that can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
One should try to avoid bleached or processed grains and cereals as they usually have fewer nutrients and they have more sugar compared to the whole grain products. There’s not much of a difference between reduced fat, full fat, and low-fat milk. Even the ADA specify just one serving of carbs is around 15g and adults have around 50-60g with just about every meal. If you haven’t switched your regular oil with olive oil, its high time you do so.
In general, 180 mg/dL is considered dangerously high and you should take steps to bring it down. Physical activity is the fastest way to lower your blood sugar without medication. Exercise lowers insulin resistance and helps your body convert glucose into energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I eat fruits if I want to lower my A1C?
A: Yes, but choose fruits with a lower glycemic index like berries, apples, and citrus fruits.
Q: Are nuts beneficial for lowering A1C?
A: Yes, nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help manage blood sugar levels.
By incorporating these foods into your daily meals and snacks, you can effectively lower your A1C and improve your overall health.
