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Time of India
30-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What to do when your blood sugar soars to 350 after meals, expert tips you need
Seeing your blood sugar spike to 350 mg/dL after a meal can be frightening but you're not alone. Doctors believe it is more common than you realize, and the good news is that there are steps you can take right away to manage it. Tracking sugar levels with a glucometer or CGM can help detect problems early on. Always consult your doctor if your symptoms persist or you begin taking new medications. Why does your sugar spike so high after eating? The body develops insulin resistance, in which insulin is either not produced effectively or cannot be used properly because it is trapped in fat cells (adipocytes), which results in high blood sugar levels , according to Dr. Manisha Arora, director of internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, reporetd The Indian Express. There are two main ways that insulin is secreted- bolus secretion, which is driven by meal intake, and basal secretion, which happens even during fasting. Live Events Blood sugar levels can be quickly raised by consuming foods high in carbohydrates or high in glycemic index, such as cakes or sweets. ALSO READ: Tired, achy, or moody? These could be sneaky signs of a Vitamin D deficiency According to Dr. Arora, there are further contributing variables such as the usage of specific drugs like steroids, excessive stress, or underlying medical issues, as per a report by The Indian Express. Blood sugar levels can reach 350 mg/dL due to a combination of eating high-carb or sugary meals or ultra-processed foods, skipping meals and then overeating later, and irregular meal timing, according to Dr. Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. Even inaccurate insulin dosage and the absence of insulin or oral medicines can result in such circumstances, as per the report. What kind of food should I focus on? Dr. Arora suggests a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet of full, unprocessed foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in order to control blood sugar spikes that occur after meals. How can I lower my sugar fast and safely? Frequent exercise is also essential for lowering blood sugar and increasing insulin sensitivity. It can also be beneficial to follow prescription drug regimens and stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. All things considered, managing elevated postprandial blood sugar levels requires a well-rounded strategy. Guidelines for the management of sugar levels, as per the report. Regular monitoring: To identify spikes early, use a glucometer or CGM. Medication adherence: Take insulin and oral medications as directed, adjusting dosages as necessary. Dietary management: Steer clear of foods high in glycemic index and simple sugars. Have frequent meals with fiber and protein, and using carbohydrate counting if on insulin, especially for people with type 1 diabetes. Exercise: Get regular exercise, even if it's just a quick stroll, but refrain from vigorous exercise when your blood sugar is elevated. Reduce stress by engaging in yoga, mindfulness, or relaxation exercises. Sick-Day protocols: Increase the frequency of blood sugar and ketones checks and never skip insulin when sick. Examine medications: Before beginning steroids, other medications, or supplements, let your doctor know. FAQs Is it normal for my blood sugar to reach 350 after a meal? No, that is too high. It could mean that your body isn't using insulin properly or that you're missing important medications or meals. What should I do right now if this happens frequently? Monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, take your medications as prescribed, adjust your diet, and consult your physician. Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
Indian Express
22-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
9 things to have in the morning to control blood sugar levels, avoid unnecessary cravings throughout the day
Experts say starting your morning with the right foods can play a pertinent role in reducing insulin resistance and naturally controlling blood sugar levels in the body. So, we asked them to list the top nine things one must include in one's diet for a healthy day ahead. Lukewarm water Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai, recommended starting the day with a glass of lukewarm water. 'You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the lukewarm water. However, practice caution when adding lemon juice, as it is acidic and can cause migraines or sinusitis. It can help kickstart your digestion and gently wake up your body without spiking blood sugar,' said Dr Agarwal. Green smoothie If you want something fulfilling, start with a small portion of a vegetable smoothie (like spinach, cucumber, and mint). Dr Agarwal mentioned that fresh green vegetables can help manage blood sugar. Berries Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with fibre and antioxidants that help control blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, said Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. Eggs High in protein and healthy fats, eggs help stabilise blood sugar and keep you full longer, preventing spikes and crashes. Greek yoghurt Unsweetened Greek yoghurt provides probiotics for gut health and protein to improve insulin sensitivity. 'A small bowl of plain Greek yoghurt can provide enough protein and good bacteria for your gut health, essential for managing insulin resistance,' said Dr Agarwal. 'Choose full-fat or low-fat versions without added sugars,' added Dr Kovil. Fenugreek water Drink a glass of fenugreek (methi) water. 'This can be made by soaking one teaspoon of seeds overnight and drinking the water in the morning. It can help improve insulin sensitivity,' said Dr Agarwal. Oats Steel-cut or rolled oats are rich in soluble fibre, which slows digestion and helps prevent blood sugar spikes. Avoid instant oats that are often heavily processed. Avocado Dr Kovil said adding avocado to your breakfast, for example, on whole grain toast, provides healthy monounsaturated fats that enhance insulin action. Dr Agarwal concurred and shared that eating a few slices of avocado or having it in a smoothie can provide healthy fats that help stabilise blood sugar levels and prevent unhealthy cravings later in the day. Nuts A handful of almonds and 2-3 walnuts offer fibre, magnesium, and healthy fats, all beneficial for blood sugar control. Dr Agarwal mentioned that individuals should eat a handful of soaked almonds (4–5) in the morning. 'Soaked almonds provide healthy fats and fibre, which help control blood sugar spikes,' he told Combining foods into your morning meals can be simple and delicious. 'A berry and yogurt parfait, an egg and avocado toast, or oatmeal topped with nuts and berries are easy ways to support better insulin sensitivity daily,' said Dr Kovil. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
12-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
When you lose fat, where does it go?
Does fat melt away, like most social media influencers suggest? Does it move from the belly to the thighs? Or does it vanish into thin air? Ever wondered what really happens when you lose fat? Turns out, there is an interesting science behind the same. Allow us to explain, with help from experts. Your body undergoes 'complex metabolic processes' to convert stored fat into usable energy. This transformation results in the production of two main waste products: carbon dioxide and water. Surprisingly, a higher percentage of the fat is exhaled as carbon dioxide, and the remaining is excreted as water, said Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. Adding, Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said that a significant portion of the fat you lose, approximately 84 per cent, is exhaled from your body in the form of carbon dioxide. 'This occurs in the lungs, where carbon dioxide is transported from the bloodstream and expelled during breathing. In essence, each breath you take helps eliminate fat that has been metabolised,' said Dr Singla. In simple terms, you breathe out most of the fat you lose, said Dr Kovil, adding that this also explains why regular exercise and deep breathing during activity play an essential role in fat loss. The remaining 16 per cent of fat loss is converted into water. 'This water is eliminated from the body through various natural processes. It exits through sweat, as your skin releases excess water to help regulate body temperature. It is also filtered by the kidneys and expelled as urine. Additionally, smaller amounts of water are lost through other bodily fluids, such as tears and saliva,' shared Dr Singla. Notably, fat is not directly excreted through feces or urine. 'Instead, after it is metabolised, the byproducts like carbon dioxide and water are removed through respiration and fluid loss. So, the next time you notice a drop on the scale, remember that your body is actively working to break down fat and eliminate its byproducts efficiently,' said Dr Singla. What to note? Pairing physical activity with a healthy diet for the best long-term results and weight loss is essential. 'It is necessary to speak to the expert and understand this. Remember, your priority should be fat loss, not just weight loss,' said Dr Kovil. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
