Endocrinologists Reveal Top Tip to Lower Blood Sugar Quickly

Experts say this simple exercise can help manage blood sugar spikes.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:23pm

According to endocrinologists, exercise is one of the fastest natural methods to reduce a blood sugar spike, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. Performing a simple activity like a brisk walk or doing some squats can cause muscles to pull glucose out of the bloodstream, lowering levels within 15-30 minutes. However, insulin remains the primary treatment for blood sugar spikes in type 1 diabetes.

Why it matters

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is crucial for those with diabetes or prediabetes. Having doctor-approved strategies to quickly lower spikes can help manage the condition and prevent complications. This advice from endocrinologists provides an accessible, drug-free option to supplement prescribed treatments.

The details

Endocrinologists recommend exercise as an effective way to quickly lower blood sugar levels, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. When muscles contract during movement, they pull glucose from the bloodstream to use as energy, causing blood sugar to naturally decrease. Activities like a brisk walk or doing squats that engage large muscle groups can have a noticeable effect within 15-30 minutes. However, insulin remains the primary treatment for blood sugar spikes in type 1 diabetes, and prescribed medications should always be the first line of defense.

  • Within 15-30 minutes of exercise, blood sugar levels should start to drop.

The players

Victoria Finn, M.D.

An endocrinologist at Medical Offices of Manhattan.

Brooke Bussard, M.D.

A lifestyle medicine health coach.

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What they’re saying

“Movement causes our muscles to contract, and contracting muscles need energy. One of the fastest sources of that energy is glucose circulating in the bloodstream.”

— Brooke Bussard, M.D., Lifestyle medicine health coach

“For type 2 diabetes, movement is often the fastest natural method to reduce a blood sugar spike.”

— Victoria Finn, M.D., Endocrinologist

The takeaway

This advice from endocrinologists provides an accessible, drug-free option for those with diabetes or prediabetes to quickly lower blood sugar spikes, supplementing their prescribed treatments. Simple exercises like brisk walking or doing squats can have a noticeable effect within 15-30 minutes.