While you can learn a lot from looking at your blood sugar responses after eating individual foods and meals, what matters most is the overall shape of your curve over time.
Please note, a rise in blood sugar after a eating, especially after eating a carb-rich meal, is normal and expected. What we’re looking to reduce is the frequency of drastic swings in blood sugar from very high to very low overtime. We’re not aiming to flatline our levels or never see an increase, this wouldn’t be healthful. For more information, you might like to check out our “What does a ‘healthy’ blood sugar response look like?” article.
Here are some things to look out for while you’re wearing your sensor:
The overall shape of your curve: Notice the overall shape of your curve over time. Does it look like the Rocky Mountains or the rolling hills of England?
Range: How much does your blood sugar vary throughout the course of your day? What is the range between your highest and lowest readings? In general, a smaller range is more desirable.
Fasting glucose: What are your blood sugar levels like when you wake up? Around 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) or lower is considered ‘normal’ for people without diabetes.
Clearance time: How long does it take your blood sugar to return to normal after a meal? For people without diabetes, blood sugar levels will generally return to baseline levels 2-3 hours after eating.
Crashes/dips: Does your blood sugar dip below baseline after eating any foods or meals? Notice whether this leaves you feeling feel more hungry, tired, or irritable.
Please note:
ZOE is a nutritional science company. We are not able to diagnose any medical conditions or advise on what this means for your healthcare. If you are under care for chronic medical conditions (including type 1 diabetes, or type 2 diabetes), you should consult with your physician for appropriate ranges specific to you.