This article will discuss 12 ways to lower blood sugar naturally, many of which also have benefits on overall health. Canned salmon is a valuable pantry staple and a practical way to include heart-healthy omega-3-rich fish in your diet. The Well is Northwell Health’s commitment to the future of health care. The site connects with consumers to provide them with personalized content that reduces their stress, makes them laugh, and ultimately feel more confident and capable on their healthcare journey. The FDA has made things easier to differentiate natural sugars (like the ones found in milk products, fruits, and vegetables) from added sugars by separating them on the nutrition facts label. A low source of added sugars is 5% daily value (DV) or less, while 20% DV or more is a high source of added sugars.
If you are looking to lower your A1C levels, it is important to focus on eating a balanced diet that is rich in nutrient-dense foods. Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
By Barbie Cervoni, RDCervoni is a New York-based registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist. By Angela Ryan Lee, MDAngela Ryan Lee, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular diseases and internal medicine. She is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology and holds board certifications from the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the National Board of Echocardiography.
However, you don’t have to follow a low-carb diet if it doesn’t work for you — physically or mentally. It’s important to note here that the term “normal A1c level” in this context refers to people without diabetes. I will get back to what a “normal A1c level” is for people living with diabetes below. Nuts high in unsaturated fats include walnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans, and peanuts. Try peanut butter on celery for a fresh and satisfying snack, or add walnuts or pecans to your oatmeal or granola mix.
Whole Grains
Put the guideline into practice by using the MyPlate style of eating—fill up half your plate with fruits and vegetables, a quarter with whole grains, and a quarter with healthy proteins. The reason for the increase in blood sugar is that the improved insulin sensitivity from exercising is surpassed by your body’s increased glucose production from the adrenaline released by the activity. It’s not an “even average,” but rather a weighted average, where your blood sugar levels over the last few weeks count a little more than your blood sugar levels from 2 to 3 months ago.
Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are excellent choices for managing blood sugar levels. These foods are high in fiber, which helps slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
Both A1C results and eAG refer to a person’s average 3-month blood glucose levels. People can use a simple calculator to help them convert their results from one measurement to the other. 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.
If you need flavor, squeeze in some lemon or add a little fruit juice to carbonated water. Finding out that your A1C is high can lead to a state of panic, but it doesn’t mean that you’re destined for a lifetime of medication. High A1C levels can be cause for concern—and a key indicator of Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Strong has strict sourcing and citation guidelines, outlined in our Editorial Policy. I’ve been living with type 1 diabetes for over 20 years, and my A1c is not something I think about in my daily life.
Vegetables
Vegetables are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an ideal choice for lowering A1C levels. Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
Lean Proteins
Opt for lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Protein-rich foods can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating and consuming excess carbohydrates.
Healthy Fats
Incorporating healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil into your diet can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in the body. These fats are also beneficial for heart health and can aid in weight management, which is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels.
