Practical tips to manage blood glucose

Ways to prevent spikes in your blood sugar this holiday season

- CHESHIRE QUE, RND, RN, RD

This holiday season, it is easier to experience spikes in blood glucose level simply from the calorie-laden dishes and sugary treats served during the festivities.

It is very important to adhere to your medications and nutrient supplementation if you have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or insulin resistance. Do not, however, rely on medications alone. Even if you help you normalize your blood glucose level in addition to having a portion-controlled, balanced diet that is high in fiber and low in refined sugars and fat.

Drink water regularly

The first thing that you need to be mindful of when managing blood glucose is to stay hydrated with water throughout the day. Inadequate intake of water leads to dehydration. Dehydration then causes the concentration of sugar in the blood to increase, therefore, leading to higher blood glucose readings this harms the kidneys because the two bean-shaped organs will exert more effort in excreting the excess sugar, leading to more fluid loss. Thus, worsening the level of dehydration. Staying hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day will help the kidneys excrete excess glucose from the blood without causing dehydration. Make it a habit to regularly drink water or carry a water bottle with you if you must. Do not wait until your throat feels parched. By then, you are already dehydrated, and your blood glucose level is most likely already above normal.