What are some natural ways to manage blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes complications?

### Natural Ways to Manage Blood Sugar Levels Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for people with diabetes to prevent complications such as heart, kidney, eye, and nerve diseases. Here are some natural ways to help keep your blood sugar on target: 1. **Monitor Carb Intake**: Carbohydrates can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate. It's important to limit carb intake and adjust according to your blood glucose readings. 2. **Eat Moderate Meals**: Spread your food intake throughout the day to help regulate blood sugar levels. Avoid eating large meals. 3. **Increase Fiber Intake**: Fiber helps stabilize blood sugar levels and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aim for 30-38 grams of fiber per day for men and 21-25 grams for women. 4. **Get Quality Sleep**: Poor sleep affects body chemistry and can lead to higher blood sugar levels. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. 5. **Lose Weight**: Even a small weight loss can improve blood glucose readings and insulin sensitivity. 6. **Stay Hydrated**: Drinking water helps flush glucose out of the body and can lower blood sugar levels. 7. **Manage Stress**: Stress can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Activities like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress. 8. **Don't Skip Breakfast**: Eating a high-protein breakfast can help prevent blood sugar spikes and aid in weight management. 9. **Add Resistant Starch**: Foods like beans and some potatoes contain resistant starch, which doesn't raise glucose levels and promotes the growth of good bacteria. 10. **Exercise Regularly**: Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps the body use glucose as energy. Aim to exercise 30 minutes after starting a meal for best results.