by Norma Chew

Created on: April 07, 2009

A normal glucose or blood sugar level is important to your health and well-being. Most importantly, a normal glucose level is necessary for proper brain function. Blood sugar level that is too low is called hypoglycemia, while blood sugar level that is too high is called hyperglycemia. In diabetics the blood glucose level can be persistently high (hyperglycemia) and can lead to severe complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, loss of vision and neuropathy. In this case diet, exercise and medication are the keys to a normal blood sugar level.

So, what is the normal blood sugar level and what can you do to lower it to within the normal level. The normal blood sugar level runs 80 - 110 it raises above that immediately after a meal and returns to its normal limits within 2 hours. If you have diabetes you must follow your medical practitioner's advice in keeping your blood sugar within the normal limits. Consulting your physician about testing your blood glucose level to see if it is within the normal level and following the advice that he/she may recommends is a good place to start in evaluating whether or not you need to lower your blood sugar.

Tips on Lowering Your Blood Sugar.

Carbohydrates

Reduce your carbohydrate intake and watch your blood sugar level go down.

Eat foods that are low on the glycemic index, these foods when eaten raises the blood sugar levels gradually. While high glycemic foods immediately raise blood sugar levels.

Vegetables

The following foods are low in carbohydrates and contain essential nutrients for your health and well-being.

Broccoli, lettuce of any variety, (romaine, iceberg etc.) Romaine lettuce is excellent to use as a wrap with chicken, meats or vegetables.

Cauliflower, steamed, mashed with cream or milk, then add butter and season to taste. This is a great substitute for mashed potatoes without all the calories.

Green beans, peas, egg plant, olives, avocados, mushrooms, green peppers, spinach and cabbage are foods highly recommended for lowering blood sugar levels.

Onions and garlic are excellent for lowering the blood sugar levels as well as soy, lentils and navy beans.

All Bran, Special K and Muesli are good cereals that won't spike your blood sugar level.

Fruits

Apples, oranges, grapefruits, limes, lemons and peaches.

Nuts

Almonds, cashews, Walnuts

Berries

Strawberries, blue berries and raspberries.

Lean Proteins

Cheese, yogurt, eggs, chicken, salmon, turkey, fish and other sea foods.

Other Things That Will Lower Blood Sugar.

Vinegar

Apple

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