Blood sugar levels can fluctuate for several reasons, and everyday habits often play a bigger role than we realise. Delaying meals, enjoying sugary treats or even shifts in medication routines can influence how the body regulates glucose. Understanding these factors is important for maintaining overall health and recognising when blood sugar changes need attention.
He adds, “On the other hand, going without food for a long time may make a person extremely hungry, leading them to eat a larger meal than usual. This can cause blood sugar levels to rise more sharply. The impact varies depending on the individual’s treatment, food intake and overall diabetes management. Sweets and desserts often contain carbohydrates from sugar, flour and other ingredients. These are broken down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream and can raise blood sugar levels. He further explains, “The effect of a sweet treat depends on several factors, including the quantity consumed, the overall meal, physical activity and how well the person’s diabetes is controlled. Planning portions and making informed food choices can help people enjoy occasional treats while managing their blood sugar. “People taking insulin or certain medicines, such as sulfonylureas, need to be particularly careful about delaying meals or reducing their food intake, as this may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia. Conversely, missing medication or taking less than the prescribed dose can lead to high blood sugar levels,” explains Dr Banerjee. “Medication requirements may sometimes need to be reviewed when a person is unwell, fasting, changing their eating routine or starting another treatment. However, these decisions should always be made in consultation with the treating doctor. Patients should not independently increase, reduce or change the timing of their diabetes medication,” he adds. “Managing diabetes is about building a routine that works with your treatment plan. Eating at appropriate times, making mindful food choices, taking medication as prescribed and monitoring blood glucose can help make daily management more consistent. If your routine, eating habits or activity levels change, speak to your treating clinician to ensure your diabetes management plan remains safe and appropriate,” concludes Dr Banerjee.
