Five small, surprising ways to lower blood sugar

1. COFFEE In general, a moderate amount of coffee (2–5 cups per day) is associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. However, some people’s blood sugar is especially sensitive to caffeine. For many people, coffee can be ideal 1-2 hours after a meal for these reasons.
2. ENOUGH SLEEP Even one night with little sleep can lead to the body using insulin less well. Sleep apnea can significantly weaken the effect of insulin in the body.
3. BREAKFAST If you don’t eat anything in the morning, your blood sugar rises more than usual after both lunch and dinner. You don’t have to eat breakfast immediately after waking up, its benefits can also be reaped a couple of hours later.
4. HYDRATION Drinking water regularly hydrates the blood and lowers blood sugar levels. You should avoid alternatives sweetened with sugar.
5. EXERCISE For example, bed rest weakens the effect of insulin and raises blood sugar. After a meal, the best activity from a blood sugar point of view is a leisurely walk.

Expert Reijo Laatikainen, nutritionist

This article has appeared in Hyvä terives magazine. As a subscriber, you can read all issues free of charge from the digilehdet.fi service.