No matter how hard you try to control blood sugar it can seem tough when you have diabetes. Even though you appear to be doing everything right, several factors can cause that blood sugar swing.
Here are 10 questions to help you accomplish your blood sugar goals and stay on track.
Are you controlling your portions?
While you can eat many of your favorite foods, the important thing is to control your portions to ensure your blood sugar does not spike after eating.
Consult your dietician/doctor to make a meal plan that balances healthy carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and fats.
Is your alcohol consumption moderate?
If you enjoy a drink or two, be mindful about how much you have. Excessive drinking can interfere with your liver releasing glucose resulting in low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia.
- Keep the following in mind to avoid this from happening.
- Stick to 2 drinks a day or less.
- Never drink on an empty stomach—always have it with food.
- Do not drink and drive as low blood sugar and high blood alcohol show the same symptoms.
Do you eat at the same time every day?
You must consume the same amount of carbohydrates in your email every day if insulin is part of your diabetes management medication. Whether or not you take insulin, it is critical not to miss breakfast as it can cause blood sugar spikes throughout the day. Also, avoid eating late at night as it can cause high blood sugar in the morning.
Are you drinking enough water?
People with diabetes lose more water from their bodies. When you do not drink enough water your blood sugar rises. Because of this, you end up peeing more often and feel even more dehydrated.
The intake of water was correlated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes in women and men.
To replenish the water you lose, drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Drink a glass of water when you wake up. Set timely reminders on your phone to help you drink the water you need.
If you find plain water boring, why not add lemon and/or cucumber slices, mint leaves, a teaspoon of chia seeds, or even crushed berries to make it more interesting?
Are you storing your medication properly?
Hot or cold weather can affect the way your body uses insulin and you may need to monitor your blood sugar more often and also manage your food accordingly.
Another thing about the weather is how you store your insulin, glucometer and its strips. Keep them in a cool dry place. If you need to refill your prescription, make sure you can store your medication and insulin as soon as you receive it.
Are you getting enough sleep?
A good night’s rest is important for everyone to be healthy. Missing sleep even for one night and getting less than 7 hours can raise blood sugar levels the next morning. Sleep deprivation makes your body produce less insulin and also makes it difficult to get glucose into your cells.
If you take insulin, make sure you get 7-8 hours of restful sleep at night to make it work as it should. Try and sleep at the same time every night to keep your body’s internal clock ticking properly and control blood sugar.
Are you getting enough exercise?
When the goal is to control blood sugar, exercise is a non-negotiable. The good news is that it is as important as your medication. Not only does it help you control blood sugar, but also keeps you from putting on weight, keeps your blood pressure under control, keeps your heart healthy and depression at bay.
For those taking insulin or sulfonylurea, intense activity can cause low blood sugar because your muscles are using your glucose more efficiently. Talk to your doctor to know how to manage these swings. You may need to take less insulin or eat some carbs before your workout. You may also need to check your blood sugar before and after your workout.
Plan for 30 minutes of cardio exercise at least 5 days per week. If you are also trying to manage your weight, you may need more. Include weight training 2-3 times a week to build muscle strength.
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To help you control blood sugar when you have diabetes ask these 7 questions was last modified: February 11th, 2025 by
