Insulin can’t always keep up with glucose absorption when blood sugar levels are high, like with diabetes. Also, another issue might occur if the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin to keep up with demands.

For cellular energy, we need glucose and insulin allows this simple sugar to be absorbed into cells. Only in that way glucose can be used for energy. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin and type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin’s actions.

6 Best Foods to Eat for Blood Sugar

CINNAMON

Ceylon cinnamon contains antioxidants that are able to balance blood sugar. It can help control blood sugar and lower insulin levels. The presence of antioxidants can improve hormonal communication and proper glucose storage and use.

SALMON

Salmon contains anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids, which are able to reduce the markers that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Blood sugar levels can develop due to the presence of inflammatory foods but omega-3s work to counterbalance the inflammatory problems and restore normal glucose usage in the body. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and healthy fats and you can be sure that this food won’t spike blood sugar.

EGGS

They are rich in protein and healthy fat. Eggs have a stabilizing effect on blood sugar and they promote the good kind of cholesterol which defends against inflammation and chronic health problems. Moreover, they are rich in B12, folate, and selenium.

WALNUTS

Walnuts have some extra benefit for your overall health. They promote healthy insulin levels and weight loss because they contain high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids. This can help decrease fasting insulin levels. Also, walnuts are rich in B vitamins, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorous.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Drinking apple cider vinegar before meals can increase muscle blood flow and improve the body’s ability to take glucose into cells, reducing insulin resistance. Also, it can improve the next morning’s fasting glucose.

CHIA SEEDS

Chia seeds are a perfect blood sugar friendly food because they are high in fiber and low in the carbs that raise glucose. Moreover, they are an abundant source of calcium, phosphorous, potassium, and natural antioxidants.

3 Worst Foods for Blood Sugar

EXCESS SUGAR

Major contributors to insulin resistance are added sugars, Paleo sweeteners, sodas, and high-fructose foods. Paleo sweeteners such as honey and maple syrup can contribute to the problem, although most people don’t realize that. If you want to balance glucose you will have to limit or avoid baked goods, even Paleo ones.

GRAINS

They contain phytates and lectins which are anti-nutrients and can cause digestive upset or contribute to health problems. Grains are more likely to spike blood sugar than the carbs in vegetables or nuts.

FOODS FRIED IN HYDROGENATED OILS OR TRANS FATS

These foods increase inflammatory markers, increase fat tissue, and mess up the good bacteria balance in the gut. Also, trans fats alter the way that insulin works in the body and that leads to more serious problems.
For maintaining healthy blood sugar levels you must pay attention to your nutrition. Diet is crucial, but there are several non-food factors which you must know:

  • Exercise
  • Get Vitamin D
  • Manage Stress
  • Prioritize Sleep

So, there is much more than just your diet. Avoid problem foods and don’t forget that the lifestyle factors are also important.