Blood Sugar Levels: Insights on Fasting and Post-Meal Readings

Blood sugar issues?

In the morning, fasting blood glucose was 103 mg/dL.
After eating a condensed milk bread for breakfast, the postprandial blood glucose was 108 mg/dL.
For lunch, I consumed approximately 1.5 bowls of risotto, and two hours after the meal, my blood glucose rose to 185 mg/dL.
Why is the blood glucose level after the condensed milk bread not higher? How can the data vary so much? Additionally, three hours after the meal, my blood glucose decreased to 129 mg/dL, and four hours after the meal, it dropped to 92 mg/dL.
Do I need medication for control? I am currently not on any medication.

Yu Xi, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/11

Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine

There are many factors that influence blood sugar levels; it's not just about what you eat, but also how much you consume and the glycemic index of the food.
Additionally, each person's daily insulin secretion is not constant, and digestion and absorption can also vary, leading to fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
Whether or not you need to take antidiabetic medication may depend on your clinical condition, such as your hemoglobin A1c levels, among other factors.
It is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2020/02/11

More Info

Understanding blood sugar levels is crucial for managing your health, especially if you are at risk for diabetes or have been diagnosed with prediabetes. Based on your reported blood sugar readings, let's break down what these numbers mean and how they relate to your diet and overall health.

1. Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Your fasting blood sugar level of 103 mg/dL is slightly above the normal range, which is typically considered to be less than 100 mg/dL. A fasting blood sugar level between 100 and 125 mg/dL is classified as "impaired fasting glucose," which is a precursor to diabetes. This indicates that your body may not be processing glucose as effectively as it should.

2. Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels: After consuming a sweetened condensed milk bread, your post-meal blood sugar reading was 108 mg/dL, which is relatively low considering the carbohydrate content of the bread. This could be due to several factors, including your body's insulin response, the timing of your meal, and the overall composition of your diet. The body can sometimes manage to keep blood sugar levels stable even after consuming sugary foods, particularly if you are active or have a healthy metabolism.

3. Two Hours After Lunch: The significant spike to 185 mg/dL after consuming 1.5 bowls of rice indicates that your body is having difficulty managing the glucose load from that meal. This is particularly concerning because blood sugar levels should generally return to pre-meal levels within two to three hours after eating. A reading above 180 mg/dL two hours after a meal is often considered a sign of impaired glucose tolerance.

4. Subsequent Readings: The drop in blood sugar to 129 mg/dL three hours after eating and further down to 92 mg/dL four hours after eating suggests that your body is eventually managing to lower the blood sugar levels, but the initial spike is still a concern. This pattern of blood sugar levels can indicate that while your body can eventually regulate glucose, it may not be doing so efficiently after high-carbohydrate meals.

5. Medication Consideration: Whether you need medication to control your blood sugar levels depends on several factors, including your overall health, weight, lifestyle, and the consistency of your blood sugar readings. Since your fasting level is slightly elevated and you experienced a significant spike after lunch, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments and increased physical activity, before considering medication.
6. Dietary Impact: The foods you eat play a significant role in your blood sugar levels. Foods high in refined carbohydrates and sugars can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar. It’s essential to focus on a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Monitoring your carbohydrate intake and spreading it throughout the day can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

In summary, your blood sugar readings indicate that you may be at risk for developing diabetes, particularly given the elevated post-meal levels. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation. They may suggest regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels, dietary modifications, and possibly medication if necessary. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise is crucial in managing blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of diabetes.

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