A1C is a measure of your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. It is important to keep your A1C level within the normal range in order to reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications. Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways you can lower your A1C. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Eat Healthy Foods
Eating a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to lower your A1C. Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other essential nutrients that can help keep your blood sugar levels stable. Avoid processed and sugary foods, which can cause your blood sugar to spike.
Get Moving
Regular physical activity is another key component of managing your A1C. Exercise can help your body use glucose more efficiently and improve your overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This can include activities like walking, jogging, swimming, biking, or any other activity that gets your heart rate up.
Monitor Your Blood Sugar
Monitoring your blood sugar regularly is an important part of managing your A1C. Check your levels before meals, after meals, and at bedtime to get a better understanding of how your diet and lifestyle are impacting your blood sugar. This information can help you make adjustments to your diet and exercise plan to keep your A1C within the normal range.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress can have a major impact on your blood sugar levels, so it’s important to manage your stress levels. Take time to relax and practice mindfulness activities like yoga, deep breathing, or guided meditation. Regularly engaging in these activities can help reduce your stress levels and keep your A1C in check.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep is also important for managing your A1C. Sleep deprivation can make it harder for your body to control blood sugar, so aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and limit caffeine and screen time in the evening to encourage better sleep.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Alcohol can adversely affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to limit your intake. If you do choose to drink, stick to one or two servings per day and avoid drinks that are high in sugar. It’s also important to monitor your blood sugar levels after drinking to ensure that your levels are within the normal range.
Talk to Your Doctor
Finally, if you’re struggling to manage your A1C, it’s important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can provide advice on lifestyle modifications and medications that can help you keep your blood sugar levels in check. They may also be able to refer you to a nutritionist or diabetes educator who can provide additional support.
Conclusion
Achieving and maintaining a healthy A1C level is an important part of managing diabetes. Fortunately, there are a number of natural ways you can lower your A1C, including eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, monitoring your blood sugar, managing stress levels, getting enough sleep, and limiting alcohol intake. If you’re struggling to manage your A1C, talk to your doctor for additional support.