Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes. American research reveals periods when patients are more successful in stabilizing their blood sugar levels. Explanations.
Diabetes, a condition characterized by persistently high blood glucose levels, is a daily reality for many people. The main distinction is between type 1 diabetes, which affects approximately 6% of cases, and type 2 diabetes, affecting 92% of diabetics according to the French Diabetics Federation. Type 1 diabetes, often detected in young people, results from insufficient insulin production by the pancreas. As for type 2 diabetes, it generally occurs in older people, and is often associated with risk factors such as being overweight, obesity or a sedentary lifestyle, combined with genetic predispositions. Regardless of type, diabetics must adhere to a rigorous diet, regular exercise routine, and ensure stable blood sugar levels to prevent complications. A recent study from Dartmouth University, published September 22, 2023, examined trends in blood sugar management among diabetics, and found better blood sugar regulation during certain months of the year.
To reach this conclusion, the research team analyzed 91,000 days of data from the portable glucose monitors of 137 individuals, aged 2 to 76 years, mainly suffering from type 1 diabetes. The objective? Understand their daily blood sugar management. Projokta Belsare, co-author of the study, shares that changes in activity levels, eating habits and lifestyle depending on the seasons could affect blood sugar levels. The data reveals better glycemic stability between April and September, a period when physical activities are more frequent, thus helping to keep glucose levels within healthy limits. Conversely, a notable glycemic fluctuation is observed during the cold months of October to February, attributed to a reduction in physical activity and an increased consumption of foods high in calories and sugar, especially during the festive period.
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Glycemic variability: Age and daily rhythm in perspective
The study also detected daily and weekly variations, with blood sugar levels more stable on weekdays, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., compared to weekends. Workweek routines appear to promote better glycemic control. However, specific days, such as holidays or celebrations, present challenges for blood sugar regulation, with Christmas and New Years being the most problematic days.
According to Prajakta Belsare, young adults (19-34 years) experience more difficulty managing their blood sugar levels, highlighting a need for additional education for this age group. This scientific work highlights the self-managed nature of diabetes, highlighting the importance of diabetes education. Although predominantly focused on type 1 diabetes, this study suggests the need for additional research to understand and address the specific challenges faced by patients with type 2 diabetes, in order to improve diabetes care overall.