3 Ways To Lower Blood Sugar Naturally

What is ‘Blood Sugar’ And Why Is It Important?

Blood sugar or blood glucose mainly comes from the carbohydrates you consume from food and drink. This is your body’s main source of energy.

Hypoglycemia - (low blood sugar) a condition characterized by low levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood, which is the body's primary energy source. It can occur due to: taking too much insulin (or diabetes treatment), not eating enough carbs in relation to the amount of insulin taken for those with diabetes, physical activity, drinking alcohol, the ration of fat, protein and fiber taken in, over heating, high altitudes, menstruation, being overworked.

Hyperglycemia - (high blood sugar) occurs when the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood becomes too high, also known as high blood glucose. It is caused by a deficiency of insulin or by insulin resistance, which is when the body is unable to use insulin effectively. Hyperglycemia is often associated with diabetes, and individuals with diabetes can experience hyperglycemic episodes frequently. If left untreated for extended periods of time, it can lead to damage to the nerves, blood vessels, tissues, and organs.

Insulin Resistance -can be a pre-cursor to diabetes or pre-diabetes. It occurs when cells begin to not respond well to insulin. As a result the pancreas will try to make more insulin to help glucose enter the cells.

Diabetes type 1 -is considered a chronic condition that is genetic. In this case the pancreas makes little to no insulin. Insulin is needed in order to allow sugar (glucose) to enter the cells to make energy.

Diabetes type 2 - can be developed over time. In this case, there is too much glucose circulating in the blood. The pancreas does not produce enough insulin and the cells are not responding to the insulin and therefore not taking in the glucose to convert to energy.

During an annual physical, your blood sugar levels are checked. Your doctor will let you know if your levels are starting to get high or borderline. This is an opportunity to adjust your lifestyle in order to lower your blood sugar before having to be put on medication. This is blog post is for educational purposes and not to be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before taking something you have not taken before. For certain conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure some of these practices might not be appropriate.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are high in fiber and from some preliminary studies it is believed eating them can lower blood sugar. They can be easily added to your water. Chia seeds can also be added to yogurt parfaits, oatmeals and smoothies. Add chia seeds to your favorite milks to make an easy pudding.

Apple Cider Vinegar

There is evidence that apple cider vinegar can lower blood sugar by helping to store excess glucose in the liver and slows the rate of the body’s glucose production and absorption. A little diluted apple cider vinegar in the mornings can help increase blood circulation which helps to promote better digestion. Take apple cider vinegar before meals to help lower blood sugar.

Those who have low potassium levels should not use apple cider vinegar as it can lower potassium levels in the blood. ACV can interact with certain medications such as diuretics and diabetes medications.

Bitter Melon

Bitter melon, is just how it sounds, BITTER! However, it contains chemicals that seem to act like insulin and help to lower blood sugar levels. Studies suggest it allows more glucose to enter the cells which helps the body process and store it.

Here is a recipe for bitter melon + pork I found on youtube that is similar to a dish my mom used to make when I was growing up.

Written by Dr. Emily Siy, DACM 11/26/23

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Sources

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds (2023) Nourish by Web MD

Chin, Kim (2021) Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar, Backed by Science, Healthline

DiLonardo, Mary Jo (2022) Does Bitter Melon Help With Diabetes? Web MD

3 Ways To Lower Blood Sugar Naturally

What is ‘Blood Sugar’ And Why Is It Important?