Blood Sugar Spikes: 10 Common Everyday Items You Didn’t Know Were to Blame

1. Stress

Stress is a common trigger for blood sugar spikes. When stressed, your body releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause your liver to release glucose into your bloodstream. This can cause your blood sugar levels to rise. To prevent stress-induced blood sugar spikes, finding ways to manage stress is crucial. This can include deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or simply walking outside.

2. Lack of Sleep

Not getting enough sleep can also cause blood sugar spikes. If you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more cortisol, which can increase insulin resistance and cause blood sugar levels to rise. Target to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to prevent this.

3. Caffeine

Caffeine can cause blood sugar levels to rise, particularly in people with diabetes. This is because caffeine can interfere with the action of insulin. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, try limiting your intake or switching to decaf. Lowsutea is a favorable substitute since it is caffeine-free.

4. Medications

Certain medications can also cause blood sugar spikes. This includes steroids, such as prednisone, which can cause insulin resistance, and some antidepressants, which can increase blood sugar levels. If you’re taking any medications, talk to your doctor about their potential impact on your blood sugar levels.

5. Fruit Juice

Fruit juice may appear like a healthy choice, but it can actually cause blood sugar spikes. This is because fruit juice contains a lot of sugar, even if it’s 100% juice. If you’re going to drink fruit juice, it’s best to limit your intake and choose a small serving size.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to rise or fall, depending on how much you drink. This is because alcohol can interfere with the liver’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. To prevent blood sugar spikes, it’s best to limit your alcohol intake and always drink in moderation.

7. Processed Foods

Processed foods like white bread, pasta, and snack foods can cause blood sugar spikes. This is because these foods are often high in refined carbohydrates, which can be quickly broken down into sugar in the body. To prevent blood sugar spikes, it’s best to choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.

8. Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk and yogurt can also cause blood sugar spikes. This is because they contain lactose, a type of sugar that can raise blood sugar levels. If you’re sensitive to lactose, try choosing lactose-free dairy products or alternatives.

9. Artificial Sweeteners

Aspartame and sucralose are examples of artificial sweeteners that are often used in sugar-free foods and drinks. However, these sweeteners can still cause blood sugar spikes. This is because they can stimulate the release of insulin in the body. To prevent blood sugar spikes, limiting your intake of artificial sweeteners is best.