From the Guidelines
For bedtime snacks when blood glucose is on the lower end but not below 70 mg/dL, I recommend consuming a balanced snack containing carbohydrates, as pure glucose is the preferred treatment, but any form of carbohydrate that contains glucose will raise blood glucose, as stated in the most recent guidelines 1. When considering bedtime snacks, it's essential to prioritize options that provide a balance of carbohydrates and other nutrients to help regulate blood glucose levels throughout the night.
- Good options include a small apple, a small handful of crackers, or half a sandwich, as these provide approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates.
- It's also important to note that adding protein to carbohydrate does not affect the glycemic response and does not prevent subsequent hypoglycemia, as mentioned in 1.
- The carbohydrates provide immediate glucose, while the fiber in many of these options helps moderate glucose absorption.
- If you're taking insulin or medications that increase hypoglycemia risk, these snacks are particularly important, as they can help prevent overnight hypoglycemia, as recommended in 1 and 1.
- Always keep your specific medical situation in mind and consult with your healthcare provider about individualized recommendations for your bedtime blood glucose management, considering the latest guidelines from 1 and 1.
From the Research
Food Options for Low Blood Glucose Levels Before Bed
When blood glucose levels are on the lower end prior to bed, but not yet at 70, it's essential to consider appropriate food options to prevent hypoglycemia.
- The studies provided do not directly address food options for low blood glucose levels before bed 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that hypoglycemia is a major limiting factor in achieving glycemic control among people with diabetes, and symptoms may occur at higher blood glucose levels in individuals with poor glycemic control 4.
- In general, patients with diabetes are advised to optimize insulin doses and carbohydrate intake to avoid hypoglycemia 4.
- A tailored approach to individualize glycemic goals and promote new therapies can help improve the quality of life of patients with diabetes 4.
Snack Options
Although the studies do not provide specific snack options for low blood glucose levels before bed,
- it is crucial to consider the impact of different oral hypoglycemic agents on daily glycemic variations 5.
- Combining an agent that primarily reduces 24-hour mean glucose levels with another that primarily narrows the range of daily glycemic variations may be an effective option in achieving high-quality glycemic control 5.
- Additionally, the effects of oral hypoglycemic agents and diet on protein metabolism in type 2 diabetes should be taken into account when selecting snack options 6.