High blood sugar levels can be dangerous in some cases, and fortunately, there are certain foods that can help you control the levels, and those that should be avoided in your diet.
High blood sugar can be dangerous if levels become too high or remain high for long periods. The glycemic index (GI) is a rating system for foods that contain carbohydrates. It shows how quickly each food affects the level of blood sugar (glucose) when eating this food alone.
Some foods are known to be low on the glycemic index, such as foods made with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and lentils.
However, “using the glycemic index to determine whether foods or groups of foods are healthy can be misleading,” says the NHS.
“The dietary advice generally given to people with type 1 diabetes is not very different from the dietary advice for people without diabetes,” says Diabetes.
“The main issues to consider are how likely different foods can severely affect your blood glucose levels,” he adds.
In fact, there are some foods and spices that can affect blood sugar levels, such as black pepper.
In one study of 86 overweight people who took black pepper supplements; They were found to have significant improvements in insulin sensitivity during the eight weeks in which they participated in the study.
In another study, rats were given black pepper extract for consumption, and researchers found that rats had a lower rise in blood sugar levels after ingestion of glucose compared to rats in a control group.
There are a number of other foods that can help control blood sugar levels, as well as foods to reduce or limit in your diet.
The NHS says that symptoms of hyperglycaemia in people with diabetes tend to develop slowly over a few days or weeks. Although “in some cases, there may be no symptoms until the blood sugar level is too high.”
The Mayo Clinic explains that understanding potential diabetes symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment. Which can help you prevent complications of diabetes and lead to a healthier, better life.
He adds that excessive thirst and increased urination are common signs and symptoms of diabetes.
“When you have diabetes, excess glucose – a type of sugar – builds up in your blood,” she says. “Your kidneys have to work overtime to filter and absorb the extra glucose.”