Post by Steve on Apr 2, 2017 7:38:20 GMT -8
Here comes a surprise: I went looking for info on why a fasting AM glucose number would be higher than expected? In five years of testing, I had never heard of the Dawn Phenomenon. In fact there are two good explanations: one depends on if you use insulin, the other for those who don't. Check this link.
Basically, your body knows that in the middle of the night you have little need for energy from glucose, your blood sugar drops and glucose is stored as glucagon1. This happens to everyone but for a diabetic it can bring a surprise! Sometime before you wake up, the glucagon converts to glucose that goes into your blood or you wouldn't have the energy to get out of bed. The glucose level now up, you hurry to get a fasting reading so you can have your breakfast. Whoa, what's this? A higher glucose number than expected after your nice controlled dinner. Well there you have it.
I never have been an evening checker, and I really have never thought to have a small snack before bed. Ironically, I thought it would kick up my morning number. Turns out it could help keep it lower! Live and learn...and live.
Here is interesting reading: Check Diabetes Self-Management, or the Cleveland Clinic, particularly if you use insulin. And if you use insulin, read about the Somogyi Effect. You might learn something new.
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1. "The effects of glucagon are the opposite of the effects induced by insulin. The two hormones need to work in partnership with each other to keep blood glucose levels balanced." –
Basically, your body knows that in the middle of the night you have little need for energy from glucose, your blood sugar drops and glucose is stored as glucagon1. This happens to everyone but for a diabetic it can bring a surprise! Sometime before you wake up, the glucagon converts to glucose that goes into your blood or you wouldn't have the energy to get out of bed. The glucose level now up, you hurry to get a fasting reading so you can have your breakfast. Whoa, what's this? A higher glucose number than expected after your nice controlled dinner. Well there you have it.
I never have been an evening checker, and I really have never thought to have a small snack before bed. Ironically, I thought it would kick up my morning number. Turns out it could help keep it lower! Live and learn...and live.
Here is interesting reading: Check Diabetes Self-Management, or the Cleveland Clinic, particularly if you use insulin. And if you use insulin, read about the Somogyi Effect. You might learn something new.
.
1. "The effects of glucagon are the opposite of the effects induced by insulin. The two hormones need to work in partnership with each other to keep blood glucose levels balanced." –