NewsHealthNHSHigh blood sugar can lead to a number of uncomfortable symptoms, but adding certain foods to your diet may help reduce your risk12:00, 23 May 2026Updated 12:00, 23 May 2026Type 2 diabetes develops when the body experiences problems with insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar can trigger symptoms including intense thirst and hunger, vision problems, and delayed wound healing.‌The NHS highlights that these symptoms can "develop gradually", but if you've received a prediabetes or type 2 diabetes diagnosis, it's crucial to take charge of your wellbeing. Without careful dietary management, unchecked high blood sugar can cause damage to the body's blood vessels.‌Blood vessel damage can result in coronary heart disease and heighten the risk of a potentially fatal stroke, reports Surrey Live.‌"You can lower your chances of complications by managing your blood glucose (sugar) as well as you can," the NHS notes.This may involve consuming more pulses, according to charity Diabetes UK."All carbs affect blood glucose levels so it's important to know which foods contain carbohydrates," the charity explains.‌"Choose the healthier foods that contain carbs and be aware of your portion sizes."One such "healthy" carbohydrate option is pulses, encompassing chickpeas, beans and lentils.‌While incorporating these foods can assist in lowering high blood sugar levels, additional steps are necessary.A generally healthy diet is advised to help reduce elevated blood sugar levels.This encompasses fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats – including nuts, seeds, avocado and oily fish. Steering clear of unhealthy foods is also strongly advised, which means cutting down on (or eliminating):‌Red and processed meatGheeButterLardBiscuitsCakesPiesPastriesPre-packages foodsSugary foodsCrispsChipsBiscuitsChocolatesCutting back on alcohol is equally recommended, alongside keeping up with regular physical activity.The NHS, in fact, encourages everyone – regardless of whether you have high blood sugar or not – to get moving for a minimum of 150 minutes every week.Article continues below"Being more physically active goes hand in hand with eating healthier," Diabetes UK added. "It can help you manage your diabetes and also reduce your risk of heart problems."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌NHSHeart diseaseDietDiabetesHealthy eatingHealth