Type 2 Diabetes and Your Menstrual Cycle: What You Need to Know About Glucose Fluctuations

How Hormones Impact Blood Sugar

Throughout your menstrual cycle, your body goes through several hormonal shifts. The two main hormones at play are estrogen and progesterone. Here’s how they can affect blood sugar:

• Estrogen: Generally, higher estrogen levels (especially during the first half of your cycle) help make your body more sensitive to insulin. This means your blood sugar may be more stable during this time.
• Progesterone: During the second half of your cycle, progesterone rises. This hormone can make your body less sensitive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels.

Because of these hormone changes, you might notice higher blood sugar levels in the days leading up to your period. Checking blood sugar during this is crucial to see how you might want to alter what you’re eating. It’s important to pay attention to these shifts so you can adjust your diabetes management plan as needed.

Glucose Changes During Different Phases of the Cycle

Your menstrual cycle can be divided into four phases. Here’s what typically happens to your blood sugar during each phase:

Phases of Menstrual Cycle:

–Follicular Phase (Days 1-14):

Blood sugar is often more stable, especially during the first week.

Estrogen levels increase, which can improve insulin sensitivity.

–Ovulation (Around Day 14):

Blood sugar levels might spike briefly around ovulation, but this is usually minor.

–Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):

Progesterone increases, which can cause insulin resistance.

Many women experience higher blood sugar levels in the week before their period.

–Menstrual Phase (Day 1 of Your Period):

As progesterone drops, your body becomes more sensitive to insulin again.

Blood sugar levels may return to normal or even drop during your period.

What You Can Do to Manage Glucose Fluctuations

Managing your blood sugar throughout your cycle can feel like a challenge, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to stay in control. Here are some tips to help:

• Track Your Cycle: Keeping a record of your cycle and blood sugar levels can help you spot patterns. Use a period tracking app or a journal to log how your blood sugar changes each day. I love the app called Flo.
• Adjust Your Medications: If you notice higher blood sugar levels before your period, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your insulin or other medications during that time.
• Focus on Diet:
  • Eat balanced meals with a good mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats to avoid spikes in blood sugar. Check out the “Your Blood Sugar, Your Cycle: A Simple Plan for Success” guide for ideas.
  • Consider reducing carbohydrate intake in the days leading up to your period if your blood sugar tends to run high. I know, I know, it is very hard during this time because your body is craving those comfort foods. The more you practice eating more balanced, the easier it will become and the better you will feel.
• Stay Active: Regular exercise can help lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, especially when your hormones are causing insulin resistance.
• Monitor Stress and Sleep: Stress and poor sleep can also affect blood sugar. Practicing relaxation techniques and getting enough rest can make a big difference.
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to higher blood sugar levels, so make sure to drink plenty of water, especially during the luteal phase.

Glucose fluctuations throughout your menstrual cycle are normal, but being aware of these changes can help you manage your type 2 diabetes more effectively. By tracking your cycle, adjusting your habits, and working with your healthcare provider, you can maintain better control over your blood sugar, no matter what phase you’re in.

xo

-Stephanie