‘If my blood sugar goes above 220 mg/dL but I can bring it down to normal within a few hours through exercise and cinnamon, am I still at risk of serious damage?’

According to Dr Aarti Ullal, physician and diabetologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, one or two rare spikes may not cause major harm, but if this happens often, it can silently damage the body over time.

So, does exercising and having cinnamon help in such situations?

Exercise is one of the most effective and natural ways to lower high blood sugar. Dr Negalur explained that your muscles use up glucose for energy, helping insulin work better. “Brisk walk, light yoga, or strength training can bring numbers down within hours. Cinnamon may improve insulin sensitivity slightly, but it is not a substitute for medical treatment. Its effect is modest and should be seen only as a dietary aid, not a quick fix,” said Dr Negalur.

Adding, Dr Ullal stressed that the key is to prevent blood sugar from spiking too high in the first place. “Consistently high spikes increase the risk of diabetes complications. It is essential to keep track of your readings, discuss them with a doctor, and follow a proper plan for food, exercise, and medicines if needed. Prevention and stability are more protective than short-term fixes,” said Dr Ullal.

Does exercise really help? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

She also contended that natural remedies cannot be a magical fix. “Please understand this. It is necessary to consult the doctor and initiate timely intervention. If overdone, natural remedies can do more harm than good. Exercise caution when it comes to your health and don’t opt for any DIYs promoted on social media,” said Dr Ullal.

What should people do if they frequently cross the 200 mark?

If your sugar often crosses 200 to 220, it signals that your baseline control isn’t enough, said Dr Negalur. “Don’t ignore it just because you can bring it down occasionally. Keep a log of your sugar levels, food intake, exercise, and stress patterns; this helps doctors fine-tune treatment,” said Dr Negalur.

Additionally, avoid overexerting yourself when sugar is high, as this can sometimes push levels even higher.

What can truly help in the long run?

Consistency is the real game-changer. Dr Negalur recommended following a balanced diet, taking medicines on time, monitoring sugars regularly, and using exercise as a daily tool, not just as a correction. “Think of lifestyle changes as preventive maintenance for your body. Most importantly, work with your doctor instead of self-managing high sugars. With the right approach, you can prevent complications and live a full, healthy life,” said Dr Negalur.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.