6 daily habits that 'secretly' increase blood sugar levels

Controlling blood sugar isn't just for people with diabetes, it's essential for heart health, energy levels, and long-term disease prevention.

But even with a healthy, sugar-restricted diet, there are some everyday habits that can raise your blood sugar.

Here are six seemingly harmless habits that can increase your blood sugar without you realizing it and how to fix them, according to the health news site Health .

Controlling blood sugar is very important, especially for people with diabetes.

Photo: AI

Start your day with a cup of coffee with lots of sugar or milk.

Coffee or energy drinks may help you stay awake, but they can also cause blood sugar to spike due to the high amount of added sugar.

Tip: Try reducing the amount of sugar or milk you add to your morning coffee or combine it with a breakfast rich in protein and fiber.

Not drinking enough water

Dehydration can cause high blood sugar, as lack of water can increase levels of vasopressin and cortisol, two hormones that affect glucose regulation.

Research shows that increasing water intake may reduce the risk of diabetes.

Tip: Sip water throughout the day, don't wait until you're thirsty.

Lack of sleep

Not getting enough sleep can affect your blood sugar. Research shows that lack of sleep not only raises blood sugar levels, but also increases hunger and cravings for sweets.

Tip: Adults should try to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. If you have persistent trouble sleeping, you may need to see a doctor.

Not eating enough protein and fiber

These two important nutrients slows digestion and helps prevent blood sugar spikes after meals.

A 2020 study found that eating protein and vegetables before eating carbs helped people with diabetes control their blood sugar after meals, compared to eating carbs first.

Tip: Eat some protein (chicken, eggs, tofu) and fiber (vegetables, whole grains) first in meals.

Protein and fiber slow digestion and help prevent blood sugar spikes

Photo: AI

Sitting too much

Being sedentary increases your risk of many health conditions, including diabetes. However, even short bursts of activity (like a 10-minute walk after dinner) can help control your blood sugar.

Tip: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) each week.

Regularly order takeout and fast food

Processed foods are high in refined carbs, unhealthy fats and excess calories, which can spike blood sugar.

Meanwhile, research shows that cooking at home more reduces the risk of diabetes and obesity.

Tip: Try cooking at home with lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates.

What to do if blood sugar is high?

There are several ways that can help "rescue" blood sugar levels, including:

• Reduce added sugars and refined carbohydrates.
• Increase physical activity.
• Stress management.
• Improve sleep, according to Health .

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/6-thoi-quen-hang-ngay-khong-ngo-len-lut-lam-tang-luong-duong-trong-mau-185250618182422507.htm