How to lower high blood sugar
Jul 30, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, hyperglycemia can be reduced through dietary adjustments, regular exercise, weight management, medication, blood glucose monitoring, and other measures. The management of hyperglycemia requires a comprehensive approach involving diet, physical activity, medication, and should emphasize individualized treatment plans. Individuals with mild elevations may improve their condition through lifestyle modifications, while those with significant increases in blood glucose or accompanying complications should seek medical attention promptly.
Under normal circumstances, hyperglycemia can be reduced through adjustments in diet, regular exercise, weight management, medication, and blood glucose monitoring. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Adjust Diet
Patients with high blood sugar should avoid consuming foods high in sugar, such as candied fruits, chocolates, and cream cakes. Additionally, intake of high-fat foods should be reduced. Consuming moderate amounts of grains, meat, dairy products, eggs, vegetables, and fruits can help slow the rise in blood glucose levels.
2. Regular Exercise
Hyperglycemic patients can burn body fat and improve insulin sensitivity through physical activity, thereby effectively lowering blood glucose levels. It is recommended to engage in 40–50 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise daily, such as walking, practicing tai chi, swimming, or interval running. Exercise should not be performed on an empty stomach and is best conducted 1–2 hours after meals.
3. Weight Management
Overweight or obese individuals can significantly improve blood glucose levels by losing 5%–10% of their body weight. Body fat reduction through combined dietary and exercise interventions is recommended, with particular emphasis on controlling abdominal obesity, as excessive visceral fat exacerbates insulin resistance.
4. Medication
If lifestyle modifications prove insufficient, antidiabetic medications should be taken as directed by a physician. For example, metformin improves insulin resistance, sulfonylureas stimulate insulin secretion, and insulin preparations are used for marked hyperglycemia or impaired pancreatic function. Medications should be individually selected based on blood glucose levels and organ function, and dosage adjustments should not be made without medical advice.
5. Blood Glucose Monitoring
Fasting and postprandial (2-hour) blood glucose levels should be monitored daily, with records kept of dietary intake, physical activity, and their relationship to blood glucose levels, allowing timely adjustments to the management plan. Learning about diabetes, avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and staying up late, and reducing stress can help prevent spikes in blood glucose.
Managing hyperglycemia requires a comprehensive approach involving diet, exercise, medication, and emphasizes individualized treatment plans. Individuals with mild elevations in blood glucose may benefit from lifestyle improvements, while those with significant elevation or complications should seek timely medical attention. Long-term, consistent glycemic control can reduce the risk of complications such as diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy.
