Lifestyle Factors That Improve Blood Sugar Management
Sometimes, managing diabetes and blood sugar levels is viewed only in the lens of exercise and diet. While these are important, there are other factors to consider that impact blood sugar levels that are not talked about enough. Along with diet and exercise, here are some factors that impact your blood sugar levels:
Stress
Emotional and/or physical stress (like an illness or cold) can increase blood sugar levels. Emotional stress is unavoidable, so it is important to have coping skills and stress management techniques that work for you. Implementing these on a regular basis can be a helpful tool for overall wellbeing and reducing blood sugar levels.
Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for many functions in the body. Inadequate sleep increases your hunger hormone, ghrelin, and decreases your fullness hormone, leptin; this can change food choices and potentially lead to eating larger portions.
Medication Compliance
If you are on medication for diabetes, it is important to take these as directed by your physician. Inconsistencies with medication can cause blood sugar fluctuations.
Diet
Regularly incorporating carbohydrates is important to maintain a balanced diet that provides the nutrients you need. Fiber is important for maintaining stable blood sugars, and fiber is in carbohydrate-containing foods like fruits, beans, and whole grains. Incorporating protein with the carbohydrates in your meals and snacks helps reduce spikes in blood sugar.
Exercise
Exercise has been shown to reduce overall blood glucose numbers. Any form of activity that you can regularly engage in will be beneficial. Ideally, some form of movement everyday is recommended, as its impact on insulin lasts ~24 hours.
If you have questions about managing your blood sugar levels, contact our office to meet with a dietitian. Here at Lemond Nutrition, we run a diabetes prevention and management class: Freedom Wellness for Diabetes Prevention and Management. Head over to our website for more details and upcoming class dates, or call our office today to sign up!