To manage diabetes, many patients should already know that monitoring blood glucose levels is critical. But how should you deal with post-meal blood glucose spikes? Blood sugar spikes are also known as postprandial glucose, and if you take a few simple steps, you can control your postprandial glucose and avoid problems.
Why do I need to monitor my blood glucose levels?
When blood glucose levels are extremely high, symptoms of dizziness can occur, which can make it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. Energy levels can also drop significantly, and you may feel nervous or moody.
If blood sugar levels are too low, you may even experience fainting. In the long run, if blood sugar remains elevated, there may be a risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, or other problems.
How do you measure blood glucose spikes?
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that blood glucose levels should be checked by fingertip blood before eating a meal. This is followed by another blood glucose monitoring session 1 to 2 hours after the first bite of food.
Maintain your blood glucose monitoring for 1 week, and record the time and blood glucose level. Record anything you think might affect your blood glucose level, such as medications or exercise. Don’t forget to keep an accurate record of the foods, portions, and carbohydrates you eat.
What levels are considered too high? Experts vary in their assessment of the target range, but the American Diabetes Association says the overall goal is to have a blood glucose level below 180 mg/dl 1-2 hours after a meal. talk to your doctor about your target blood glucose level and don’t adjust your medication without consulting your doctor.
How do I manage my postprandial blood glucose?
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Choose medications that are effective in controlling your diabetes. A scientifically based insulin dosage or dosing regimen may significantly improve the control of diabetes. In general, fast-acting insulin injections are more effective than long-acting insulin injections for managing postprandial blood glucose spikes. Your doctor will advise on the appropriate regimen.
- Glucose testing should be performed before meals. Tested before a meal, even after the meal, blood glucose does not show extremely significant changes.
- Watch your diet. Limit the intake of foods such as sweets, white bread, rice, pasta, and potatoes. They lead to a higher risk of postprandial hyperglycemia.
- The type of fat you consume may also play a role. One study suggests that if you stop consuming foods with a lot of butter and choose foods cooked with a small amount of olive oil, it may help curb the post-meal blood sugar spike.
- Stick to a regular daily breakfast. Even if you’re in a hurry to get out the door, make sure you eat breakfast. One study showed that people with diabetes who did not eat breakfast had higher blood sugar spikes after lunch and dinner. What foods are included in an ideal breakfast? The ideal breakfast is a protein-rich meal. One small study showed that when patients consumed a breakfast with 35 percent protein and 500 calories of energy, their postprandial blood sugar levels were lower than those of patients who had a high-carbohydrate food for breakfast. However, it is important to ask your doctor what breakfast is best.
- Postprandial walk. Walking after a meal is a healthy habit for everyone. If you have diabetes, taking a walk to burn off the extra glucose you consume at meals is also great for reducing postprandial spikes.