What to Eat to Lower High Blood Sugar Naturally

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) occurs when the amount of glucose in the blood is excessive. Normally, the body produces and stores a certain amount of glucose, however, for the body to effectively use glucose, it relies on a hormone called insulin. If the body stops making insulin or can't respond to it properly, glucose can build up to excessive levels. Over time, these high levels can create serious health problems, including vision, heart or kidney disorders. Luckily, high blood sugar can be managed; one of the most crucial ways is through a healthy diet.

Nuts

Even though nuts are high in fat, the type of fat in nuts is considered healthy, particularly where blood sugar level is concerned. The fat in nuts can make the body more responsive to insulin. Nuts to eat to lower blood sugar include Brazil nuts, pecans, walnuts, peanuts and almonds.

Whole Grains

Whole-grain foods are usually in high in fiber. Fiber slows down the digestion process and facilitates the slow release of glucose into the bloodstream, thus lowering high blood sugar. Recommended high-fiber whole grains include barley, oats, rye, corn (including popcorn) and brown rice.

Fruits

Despite their natural sweetness, certain fruits--not all--are good for lowering blood sugar. Fruits with high fiber content are especially beneficial. Some of the healthiest fruits include strawberries, avocados, apples, cherries, grapefruit, kiwis, prunes, plums, pears, peaches, oranges and grapes. Avocados are doubly beneficial, as they not only contain ample fiber, but contain the healthy fat that helps to make the body more responsive to insulin.

Vegetables

Certain non- or low-starch vegetables are particularly good for lowering high blood sugar, often due to their high fiber content. These include carrots, sweet potatoes, garlic and onions. Raw garlic is especially healthful, as it can raise insulin production and increase the body's response to insulin.

Legumes

Being so high in fiber, almost all beans are very good for lowering blood sugar. Eat plenty of black, navy, pinto, kidney, mung, navy and garbanzo beans (chickpeas), as well as plenty of lentils.

Cinnamon

According to Life Enhancement.com, ample research has shown that cinnamon is very effective at lowering blood sugar. The spice is high in fiber and mimics the effects of insulin on the body. There's no need to overload your diet with cinnamon--research shows that just one gram a day is sufficient to see results. Ingesting higher amounts did not produce better results.