SAEDNEWS: Seemingly harmless daily habits can raise your blood sugar and increase your risk of diabetes. In this article, we explore these habits and how to replace them with healthier ones.
According to SAEDNEWS, Keeping your blood sugar under control is important not only for people with diabetes but also for maintaining heart health, steady energy levels, and reducing the risk of chronic disease. Even if you eat a healthy diet and limit sugar, certain everyday habits may be quietly causing your blood sugar to spike. Here are five hidden habits that can raise your blood sugar—and simple ways to fix them.
Your morning latte or energy drink may give you a quick boost, but it can also send your blood sugar soaring because of its high added sugar content.
Examples:
A White Chocolate Mocha contains 46 grams (11.5 teaspoons) of added sugar.
A 16-ounce energy drink contains 61 grams (about 15 teaspoons) of added sugar.
These drinks lack important nutrients like fiber and protein that help stabilize blood sugar, and drinking them on an empty stomach can make the spike even worse.
Fix: If you can't skip your sweet morning coffee, reduce the added sugar or pair it with a high-protein, high-fiber breakfast.
Dehydration can raise blood sugar by increasing levels of vasopressin and cortisol, hormones that affect glucose regulation. Research suggests that drinking more water may help lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Fix: Drink water regularly throughout the day instead of waiting until you feel thirsty.
Stress triggers the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can increase blood sugar levels. Ongoing stress can also boost hunger and cravings for sugary foods.
Fix: Manage stress with relaxing activities such as walking, meditation, or journaling.
Lack of sleep can negatively affect blood sugar levels. Research shows that poor sleep not only causes blood sugar fluctuations but also increases hunger and cravings for sugary foods.
Fix: Adults should aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. If you have ongoing sleep problems, talk to your doctor or a sleep specialist.
Your morning coffee isn't the only culprit. Sodas, chocolate milk, fruit juices, and other sugary drinks consumed throughout the day can also raise blood sugar. Regular intake of sugar-sweetened beverages is linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Fix: Save sugary drinks for occasional treats and choose water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water most of the time.
