Lowering Morning Glucose
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Monday, February 13, 2006 |
Q: "How can I lower my morning readings? All other times are usually within an acceptable range but the morning fastings are a little high—up to 150. I have type 2 diabetes and I am not on any medication."
A: Your question continues to be one of the most frequently asked questions on our website. First read the related answer below titled "Glucose is higher in the morning."
Here are things to consider when you discuss this with your diabetes team:
- Goals: First confirm with your doctor regarding your specific glucose.
- A1C: You didn't mention your A1C result; although this test gives you only a general overall picture of your control over the past 2-3 months, it is one more piece of information that may help you and your team to decide what is the next course of action.
- Monitoring: You did not specify what other times you have tested. It is good to check your glucose at various times to pinpoint exactly when the glucose begins to rise-for example, if your glucose tests before dinner, 2-hours after dinner, and before bed are all within target, then you would be able to confirm that it is only the fasting glucose which is above target, and that it is not caused by being too high the evening before.
- Weight control: If you are overweight and are actively working on weight control, it is possible that with a little bit of weight loss, your glucose numbers will come down.
- Activity: If you aren't doing regular exercise, you may find that beginning an exercise program will help as well.
- Meal Plan: Have you reviewed your meal plan with your dietitian? Perhaps your meal plan may need to be adjusted.
- Medication: If all the above have been tried, and your fasting glucose remains above target, then your diabetes team may decide it is time to begin diabetes medication.
Related Questions
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Q:
"I know exercise is good for me but I just can't get started. Can you give
me some tips?"
Nutrition Advice
Q:
"Can you provide me with some nutrition recommendations for a diabetic
diet? I am newly diagnosed and am afraid to eat anything!"
Glucose is higher in the morning
Q:
"I have been controlling my carb intake and have lost 40 lbs. Why do I have
a surge in my blood glucose level between bedtime and my first morning reading,
from 126 to 155? How can this happen ..."
Glucose Goals
Q:
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Related Links
Joslin Diabetes Center
http://www.joslin.org
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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