How to Tackle High Sugar Levels Post COVID-19?
The last few months have been quite overwhelming for all of us. While COVID-19 cases are reducing, the number of diabetic patients is increasing. According to a recent study, 14 out of 630 patients are experiencing consistent high blood sugar level after COVID-19 treatment. This phenomenon is occurring worldwide. Experts are still trying to understand how COVID-19 treatment is causing diabetes among those who didn’t have this disease before.
COVID-19 treatment and diabetes interconnection
• High doses of steroids can be a possible reason for high sugar levels post-treatment. Patients receive intravenous steroids during the initial phase of COVID-19 treatment,
• Later, the steroids are replaced by oral doses and tapered and stopped. This normally reduces the sugar levels subsequently in most patients. But some patients show consistent high sugar levels.
• COVID-19 affects the insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. The disturbance in these cells can lead to insulin deficiency. It ultimately results in high blood sugar levels.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome, intermittent fever and inflammatory syndrome are other side-effects of COVID-19 treatment.
So, if you have tested COVID-19 positive, and are on steroidal treatment; whether you are diabetic or non-diabetic, get your blood sugar test done.
Diet tips on how to tackle high sugar levels post COVID-19
Avoid simple carbohydrate
Simple carbohydrates are made up of a shorter chain of molecules. It gets digested very quickly. Hence, they produce a spike in blood glucose. Examples of simple carbohydrates are white bread, white flour, white rice, white sugar etc. So, cut down your sugar intake for better blood sugar management. Eat more complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, whole wheat, quinoa, and other plant-based foods.
Eliminate sweeteners
Avoid sugar, honey and jaggery. Also, avoid food items that contain these sweeteners. It will help you keep your blood sugar in check.
Eat high-fibre foods
Increase the amount of fibre in your diet. It can help you in managing your blood sugar better. Fibre-rich foods also help in reducing cholesterol levels. Inculcate fibre-rich foods like salads, whole grains, nuts and seeds in your diet.
Include protein in your diet
Protein is must-have food in your diet. It helps in managing blood sugar levels. Protein contributes to energy production without increasing blood glucose levels. Some good examples of protein-rich foods are eggs, almonds, fish, soya, etc.
Stay Active (but do not rush back to your pre-COVID exercise program)
Staying active makes your body more insulin sensitive. By staying active you are allowing your cells to use your blood sugar for energy. Do not sit or lie down in one place for a longer period of time. Move around in your home at regular intervals.
Incorporate Pranayama
Pranayama is a proven tool to manage your diabetes. It has calming effects on our nervous system. Pranayama also reduces your stress levels. Breathing exercises promote blood supply to all parts of your body. It also stimulates insulin secretions.
Conclusion- How to tackle high sugar levels post COVID-19
COVID-19 has taken a lot of toll on all of us. High blood sugar is a common side effect after COVID-19 treatment. So, get your sugar level checked to avoid further complications. In case you need any guidance on post-COVID-19 nutrition, then contact Kanupriya Khanna. She is a Senior Consultant Nutritionist & Dietitian with over 18 years of experience. She is titled one of the best dietitians in Delhi. What makes her best is the positive reviews from her patients. So, if you want to have a piece of expert advice on your nutrition post-COVID-19, feel free to contact her.
Also read: Diet for COVID Positive pregnant women