Having high levels of glucose in the blood is a condition known as hyperglycemia. This is a common symptom of metabolic disorders like diabetes, which is caused by insufficient insulin or a resistance to its effects. Diabetics must typically make changes in their lifestyles to manage their blood glucose levels.
Take a blood glucose reading with your blood glucose meter. Your pre-meal blood glucose level should be in the range of 90 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dl) and 130 mg/dl. Your post-meal blood glucose level shouldn’t exceed 140 mg/dl. Hyperglycemia is generally defined as a blood glucose level greater than 180 mg/dl.
Restrict your sugar intake. Table sugar and fruit sugar are simple sugars that your body converts quickly into glucose during digestion. They can cause your blood glucose level to rise very quickly, resulting in a blood glucose “spike”. Your doctor may recommend that you avoid sugary foods completely if you’re severely diabetic.
Eat smaller meals. You can also reduce your post-meal blood glucose level simply by eating less, although this may also require you to eat more often to maintain your total caloric intake. Diabetics may also need to restrict the amount of starches they eat since these will be converted into glucose.
Exercise more often. Diabetics may also be able to lower their blood glucose level by performing aerobic exercise such as running, bicycling and brisk walking. These activities burn a lot of calories and require your body to use the glucose in your blood as an energy source. Ensure your urine doesn’t contain ketones before exercising if your blood glucose level is above 240 mg/dl.
Increase your consumption of dietary fiber. Fruits and vegetables are good source of fiber and may help reduce your blood glucose level. You should get at least 50 grams of fiber per day if you have a tendency towards hyperglycemia.