According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), at night is the time when blood sugar is easily fluctuating because the body stops eating for many hours, and is also affected by the hormone released from the liver. Good control of blood sugar before bed helps prevent the phenomenon of hypoglycemia at night or increased blood sugar the next morning (an event of dawn).
Here are 3 evening habits recommended by experts to help stabilize blood sugar effectively during sleep:
1. Eat a snack before bed
A snack, containing complex carbs and protein like half a banana with less peanut butter or a slice of whole-wheat phi noodles helps maintain stable glucose throughout the night. Avoid sweets, high GI fruits, or greasy foods.
2. Take a light walk after dinner
Gentle exercise such as walking 1520 minutes after dinner helps the body consume less glucose, reduces pressure on insulin and helps blood sugar gradually decrease to a safe level before going to bed.
3. Check blood sugar before bed
Measuring blood sugar about 1 hour after dinner and right before bed helps you adjust your food or get medical intervention early if you notice abnormal signs.
Experts from the Mayo Clinic note: Good blood sugar control at night not only helps sleep deeper but also slows down the progression of complications in people with type 2 diabetes.
