Publication Date: 6/16/2006
Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
I have type 2 diabetes, and I am having too many readings greater than 200 mg/dL [11.1 mmol/L]. In everything I read, I am yet to find anything that tells me how to get my readings down. I see exercise, drink more water, etc. I can't do too much exercise because I have a lot of trouble with my legs. Are there any foods that would help? There must be something. I know if it were low, they push extra sugar but nowhere can I find anything that helps bring high readings down.Answer
Food cannot lower blood glucose levels. Food is the body's energy source, and its purpose is to provide glucose as a fuel for the body to run itself. Other than water, all foods will have some type of effect on body metabolism. There are many medications to lower blood glucose.Exercise is extremely beneficial, and there are exercises that can still be done, regardless of your leg problems. Exercise can be done on a recumbent bike or even in a chair. Talk with your doctor about seeing an exercise physiologist to tailor a program for you.
If your blood glucose levels remain elevated despite the best you can do with meal planning and exercise, it's time to consider adding medications to help control your diabetes.
