Balancing Blood Sugar with Diet

Want to eat to help your blood sugar balance, but not sure what to do?  

I see clients with blood sugar imbalances every week, it’s a huge problem in the UK affecting millions of people and costing the NHS a fortune.

There is plenty of advice out there, but I still find that when diabetic clients come to me for help they are confused about what to eat.

So here are a few of the things I have found to be effective when working with blood sugar issues.

Understand it’s important

No one wants to develop diabetes.  Once diagnosed most people are keen to manage with diet and avoid a lifetime dependance on medications.  

This isn’t the only issue however, blood sugar fluctuations can have a massive impact on many other areas of health.

Did you know that problems with blood sugar regulation can affect your heart, immune system and ability to fight inflammation?  It can also increase your risk of dementia. 

On top of that, blood sugar imbalances contribute to weight gain, low energy, poor concentration, irritability, anxiety and depression.

This is something well worth working on then, so what the best approach?

Cut Sugar

Avoid sugar as much as possible.  Sounds obvious, but sugar sneaks it’s way into so many foods.  As well as sugar, it’s a good idea to reduce foods and drinks that will cause a spike in your blood sugar, this includes bananas, grapes and anything with caffeine.

If this sounds like a challenge, don’t panic.  If you take on board the next few suggestions it becomes easier, as cravings reduce.

Boost protein and fibre

Eating more high protein and high fibre foods really helps.  I’ve used this advice with so many clients over the years, and the effects are amazing.  The side effects are, better energy, improved mood and less anxiety.

The trick is to avoid meals that contain only carbohydrates, and make sure you get some protein and fibre at each meal and snack.

Make sure your body has what it needs to stay in balance

The body uses nutrients including chromium, manganese, zinc, magnesium and B vitamins to regulate blood sugar.  If you are low on any of these it makes it more difficult for the body to keep control.   I assess all my clients using a questionnaire and then we work out a personal programme to make sure they have what they need. 

Get Help

If all this seems a bit daunting, a one to one nutrition session is a great way to make a start.  I work with all my clients to make sure that they have a programme that is doable as well as enjoyable.