Use Blood Sugar Support
Glucose, the sugar in your blood, is your body’s primary source of energy. When you eat, your blood sugar rises and then insulin helps the glucose get into cells where it can be used. Keeping blood sugar levels close to the recommended target range is an important part of managing diabetes.
Many people with diabetes use a portable device called a glucose meter and test strips to measure their blood sugar support. The meter pricks the finger with a needle to produce a drop of blood that is then placed against a test strip, which shows the blood sugar reading on a screen. Some meters have a touchscreen for easy operation and a speaking function for those with vision problems. Many types of meters are available, and some insurance plans cover the cost of glucose meters and testing supplies.
It’s a good idea to work with your healthcare provider to choose the right blood sugar monitoring system for you. Your doctor can teach you how to use a meter and help determine your target blood sugar level for optimal health. Some people with type 1 diabetes may benefit from using a hybrid closed loop system, which is an insulin pump that uses a continuous glucose monitor to automatically deliver the correct amount of insulin to the body through a small tube implanted under the skin.
How to Use Blood Sugar Support
When choosing a blood sugar monitor, consider its size and portability, its ability to store data, the type of insulin it can handle and how much it costs. You should also ask your healthcare provider about glucose meter and test strip coverage, as some insurance plans only cover certain brands.
Keep a log of your blood sugar results and bring it to your health care provider every time you visit. Keeping track of your results can help you understand why your glucose was high or low, such as after a specific meal or a lack of sleep. It can also show you how your actions—such as swapping a starchy side dish for non-starchy vegetables, or taking a walk after a meal—impact your glucose level.
Aim to eat a balanced diet that includes healthy fats, protein and carbohydrates. Exercise is also an essential part of your management plan. Try to do activities that involve upper and lower body strength, such as jogging or lifting weights. Exercise can also reduce stress, which can cause a spike in blood sugar.
In addition to dietary changes, certain supplements can also aid in blood sugar support. For example, chromium picolinate has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose metabolism. Alpha-lipoic acid is another powerful antioxidant that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high blood sugar levels. Other supplements such as cinnamon, berberine, and magnesium have also been studied for their potential to support healthy blood sugar levels.
Supplement your diet with natural herbs and supplements to support healthy blood sugar. Ingredients such as gymnema extract, Chinese cassia cinnamon and fenugreek have been shown to help lower blood sugar. It is also important to get enough sleep, which can also improve glycemic control.