Managing blood glucose, AKA sugar, levels is a crucial aspect of living with diabetes. While regular testing is essential, the timing of these blood glucose checks can significantly impact the effectiveness of diabetes management. Varying the times of blood glucose checks rather than checking at the same time every day is important. A variety of blood glucose tests at different times can give you more information to make better decisions about your health. 

Understanding Blood Glucose Fluctuations 

Blood glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors such as meals, physical activity, stress, and medication. By checking at different times, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of how these factors affect your blood glucose levels. This information is vital for making informed decisions about your nutrition, physical body movement, sleep, and medication. 

The Benefits of Testing at Different Times 

1. Identifying Patterns: Testing at different times helps identify patterns in blood glucose levels. For instance, you might notice that your levels spike after certain meals or drop during specific activities. Recognizing these patterns allows you to adjust your routine to maintain stable blood glucose levels. Reach out to your HealthCoach when you are noticing your trends. They may help give you tips and insight into your blood sugar numbers. 
2. Preventing Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia: By varying your checking times, you can catch episodes of low (hypoglycemia) or high (hyperglycemia) blood glucose levels that might otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection of these episodes enables timely intervention, reducing the risk of complications. If you have concerns about your numbers, talk with your Tula nurse, who can guide you to prevent out-of-range blood sugar levels. 
3. Optimizing Medication: Different medications have varying effects on blood glucose levels at different times of the day. Checking your blood sugar multiple times can help you and your healthcare provider determine the most effective medication regimen and dosing schedule. 

If you have concerns about your numbers or questions about your medications, contact your Tula nurse. 

Practical Tips for Varying Blood Check Times 

1. Before and After Meals: Check your blood glucose levels before and two hours after meals to understand how different foods affect your levels. Take note of foods that spike your blood sugar >160 mg/dl at two hours after a meal. Talk to your HealthCoach or dietitian about why this might happen and how you can improve your blood sugar response. 
2. Before and After Exercise: Check your levels before and after physical activity to see how exercise impacts your blood sugar. All exercise is good for your body, but different exercises have different impacts on your blood sugar. Journal any activity that you notice decreases your blood sugar. If your blood sugar increases during or after certain exercises, ask your HealthCoach for reasons why this might happen. This can happen because of what you ate before exercising or if you worked out hard, causing your body to release sugar into your blood for energy. 
3. At Bedtime and Upon Waking: Testing at these times can help you understand how your levels change and adjust your before bedtime routine accordingly. This number is heavily influenced by your daily stress, before-bedtime meal, and your body movement. Your waking blood sugar is heavily influenced by your bedtime hormonal fluctuations and quality of sleep. 
4. Random Times: Occasionally test at random times to catch any unexpected fluctuations. This can give you important insight into your body. You can then start to notice what causes your blood sugar to be high and low. 

Incorporating varied blood glucose checks into your daily routine is more than just a practice; it’s a powerful tool in your diabetes management arsenal. By understanding how your blood sugar fluctuates throughout the day and in response to different activities, you equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions that directly impact your health. Consistency in testing at different times, combined with thoughtful reflection on the results, can lead to better management of your blood glucose levels and a healthier, more balanced life. Remember, every check is a step toward greater control and improved well-being—so embrace the process, stay curious, and keep learning. Your journey to optimal health is unique, and these strategies will help you navigate it with confidence. 

Sending Health Your Way!

The Tula Clinical Team 

Reviewed by:
Austin MS, RDN, CSR, LDN, CD
Aubree RN, BSN