Diet and lifestyle

See also the advice for blood sugar high for dietary advice.

Eat one large or two small apples after each meal for their beneficial and balancing effects on blood sugar.

Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates like wholegrains and their products, fresh fruit and vegetables, seeds, nuts and the like.

Some suggest to eat smaller and regular meals, about 6 a day using nuts, seeds or dairy based snacks between meals if needed.

Eat foods rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin (B3) such as whole grains. See also vitamins for more foods rich in B vitamins.

Avoid processed food and all junk foods.

Coffee raises blood sugar but avoid too many caffeinated drinks as they cause an imbalance of blood sugar. Caffeine causes the liver to release stored glucose into the blood giving a temporary raise in blood sugar and a surge in energy levels. The pancreas releases insulin to deal with the rush of blood sugar and the energy rush subsides. The person may crave another coffee to feel the 'kick' again and the process is repeated. Over time (weeks and months) of this reliance on caffeine for energy, the pancreas becomes exhausted and can lead to severe swings in blood sugar levels. Caffeine also causes the release of adrenal hormones leading to feelings of shakiness and anxiety. Two cups of coffee a day is my personal limit, both in the morning.

* This is really interesting look at diet and blood sugar, an eye opening read and not at all what you might expect, a must read, and don't forget to check the references for further detailed info.