How to manage unstable blood sugar levels in a diabetic?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 50-year-old female. I have been suffering from diabetes for the past two years, and I am taking medications to keep it under control. But sometimes, even after doing proper exercise and taking medications, I can see fluctuations in my blood sugar level. My doctor advised me to take a low-carbohydrate diet. How does the intake of excess carbohydrates affect the blood glucose level and make it high? What are the other health consequences I face due to the high carbohydrates in my diet? How do I control it? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Carbohydrates significantly impact blood glucose levels, particularly for those managing diabetes. When consumed, carbohydrates break down into glucose, entering the bloodstream and causing blood sugar levels to rise. In diabetes, the body struggles to produce or respond to insulin, making it harder to regulate these spikes. Simple carbohydrates, like sugars and refined grains, rapidly convert to glucose, causing quick spikes in blood sugar.

Over time, high carbohydrate intake can worsen insulin resistance (a resistance to the hormone insulin, resulting in increased blood sugar), making blood sugar regulation more difficult. High-glycemic index (GI, a measure of how quickly a food can make the blood sugar rise) foods cause more significant blood sugar spikes compared to low-GI foods. Excess carbohydrates can lead to weight gain, increased insulin resistance, and complicated diabetes management. High-carbohydrate diets, especially those high in sugars and refined carbs, are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and can worsen blood sugar control.

Consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious diabetes complication where the body produces excess blood acids, fluid, and electrolyte balance). To control carbohydrate intake, focus on low-carb diets with whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes. Include protein, healthy fats, and fiber with your carbs to slow glucose absorption.

Monitor portion sizes and blood sugar levels to understand food impacts. Work with a dietitian for a personalized meal plan. Choose complex carbs over simple sugars and refined grains, read food labels to avoid high-sugar foods, eat at regular intervals, and stay hydrated to help regulate blood sugar levels.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.