According to the National Institute for Health, a fasting blood glucose level is generally considered normal up to 100 milligrams per deciliter. (mg/dL). A fasting blood glucose level between 100 mg/dL and 126mg/dL is considered to be a risk factor for diabetes. Diabetes is typically diagnosed with individuals who have over 126 mg/dL. High blood glucose levels are normally associated with diabetes, but there are a number of other conditions such as pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis and hyperthyroidism that can cause high blood glucose readings.
Lose weight
The best way to lower blood glucose levels is to lose weight, if you are over weight.. Losing five percent to 10 percent of your body weight can lower your blood glucose levels and reduce your chances of getting type two diabetes.
Exercise
Even if your goal is not to lose weight, exercising 30 to 60 minutes a day is extremely helpful in lowering blood glucose levels. This could be walking, biking, swimming or any type of exercise you like. The 30 to 60 minutes do not have to be accomplished all at one time but could be broken into small exercise segments, for example walking 10 to 20 minutes three times a day will help.
Take the medication prescribed
If you are prescribed medications to control your diabetes, cholesterol or high blood pressure or other conditions, they should be taken according to the prescription. If you have any questions or problems, contact your doctor or your pharmacist.
Eating healthy foods
The diet to lower high blood glucose levels should include fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The amount of fats and sugars in the diet should be reduced. Additionally, there is much study regarding specific foods, herbs and spices that have been thought to play an important role in reducing high blood glucose levels. Some that have had some positive results include: stevia, cloves, bitter melon, fenugreek, biotin, turmeric and magnesium. However, most of the studies on these specific foods need more research. You may want to discuss the results with your physician before using any of these foods.
Apple Cider Vinegar
There have been a number of studies over the years on the effects of apple cider vinegar and its benefits. One recent small study at Arizona State University conducted by nutrition professor Carol Johnson and Andrea White, a registered dietitian, showed up to 6 percent reductions in up to blood glucose levels in Type 2 diabetic patients who drank two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in water at bedtime.
Cinnamon
A study by the National Institute of Health tested individuals with Type 2 diabetes consuming one gram, three grams or six grams of cinnamon a day. All three levels reduced the fasting blood glucose levels 18 percent to 29 percent; triglycerides were reduced 23 percent to 30 percent; LDL cholesterol was reduced 7 percent to 27 percent and total cholesterol was reduced by 12 percent to 26 percent.
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