Trying to maintain consistency when reducing your blood sugar levels can be a tricky task for a lot of people.
However, developing the right daily habits with some simple changes could help significantly, according to a leading medical expert.
Dr Jane Glazebrook from The Slimming Clinic emphasised that healthy eating patterns and regular exercise are crucial for blood sugar management.
“The daily habits that can help to moderate blood sugar levels include healthy eating. Ensuring you eat five portions of fruit and veg a day, for example, and cutting down on sugary processed foods are good habits,” said Dr Glazebrook.
The expert encouraged people to make sure they have five portions of fruit and veg each day
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The expert advised people to control their portions and prioritise healthy eating, reducing their intake of processed food.
She said: “Eating a diet that’s lower in saturated fat, sugar and salt, and rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins is extremely beneficial for blood sugar levels.
“Swapping sugary drinks for water and reducing alcohol consumption can be an important tool to help reduce weight and positively impact blood sugar levels.”
A specific type of food people should focus on is fatty fish like salmon or mackerel, as they provide a great source of protein, healthy fats and antioxidants.
Exercise also plays a key role in blood sugar management, with the expert recommending daily physical activity.
“Incorporating exercise regularly into your lifestyle has a beneficial impact on blood sugar levels,” Dr Glazebrook explained.
“It doesn’t have to be running a marathon – even things like going for a brisk walk are beneficial. Ideally, it’s advised to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day.”
For people who want to go one step further, the doctor encouraged people to start doing resistance exercises such as body weight exercises which have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity.
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Exercise can help people reduce their blood sugar levels
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If you are overweight, slimming down may also be beneficial as it can significantly help reduce your blood sugar levels.
Dr Glazebrook explained: “For an overweight person, losing five to 10 per cent of their body weight can make a significant difference.”
How much you eat and when is also essential. The expert stated: “Skipping meals can be detrimental to blood sugar levels, as can eating portions which are too large.”