CGM

[Pjbeckett]

Hi, I’ve recently bought a continuous blood glucose monitor and found it to be very interesting, however I’m struggling to find papers that cover how best to interpret the results beyond the typical finger prick metrics of 8h fasting and post meal blood glucose level.

For example what is a good average daily glucose level? Is this a good predictor of H1C? And is lower average blood sugar better?

When it comes to peaks in blood glucose, should you be reducing the magnitude of the peak or the area under it? E.g. eating slower seems to reduce the peak, but increases the duration such that the area below the curve remains similar. Which is better and why?

Anyone read any good peer reviewed papers covering the above?

 

[Taighnamona]

I’m type 2 on insulin and can only speak for myself. Your numbers will depend on where you’re starting from. I note that your profile says prediabetic so in a good place to get control of your glucose levels. I am on a low carb lifestyle around 50 gms per day.
I aim for between 4 and 8 most of the day and am very happy when my CGM is almost a straight line around 5/6 most of the day. Accepting that some meals may push it up to 10 the best test is if it comes down within a couple of hours.
A CGM is most valuable in showing you which carbs spike your glucose levels the most and for how long. All carbs will eventually raise your levels. Fats help slow that down. Fast rises and falls are better than high over a longer time. This can be managed by not eating so much of the problematic carbs or eliminating them.
I can’t touch potatoes or scones/ cakes but can tolerate a half slice of toast or a small portion of pasta. I tolerate carbs better in the evening but not earlier in the day.
There are lots of helpful info papers on this site and I’m sure others will be along shortly to advise.
Within the duration of a single CGM this is unlikely to be helpful in pinpointing your next A1c.