How to Keep Blood Sugars Level During a Period

A woman's menstrual cycle (and accompanying hormonal changes) can cause variations in blood glucose levels. Many women may note an increase in their blood glucose after ovulation, which then decreases once menstruation starts. These changes are caused by the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which occur at higher levels before your period. They influence insulin in causing your blood glucose to rise. It is important to test your blood glucose levels during this cycle to be certain that your blood sugar variations are attributed to menstruation, not something else.

Things You'll Need

• Blood glucose testing equipment
• Access to exercise equipment
• Exercise clothing
• Medications for diabetes and other conditions
• Healthy, low-calorie carbohydrate snacks

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Strategies for Type 1 Diabetics

  For many Type 1 diabetics, or insulin-dependent diabetics, their normal dosage of insulin is insufficient to manage their blood glucose levels during the premenstrual cycle, as the hormonal changes increase insulin resistance. More typical of type 1 diabetics is difficulty controlling the fasting blood sugar before breakfast before the onset of menstruation. You should consult with your physician to vary the normal dosage to better regulate your blood glucose levels. Once your period has started, you can then resume your normal dosage. Be sure to have a record of your blood glucose readings that show comparisons between your menstrual and non-menstrual cycles. Also, be sure to note the symptoms you are having.

• 2

  Strategies for Type 2 Diabetics

  For type 2 diabetics who are not taking insulin, exercise is especially crucial during your premenstrual cycle. It will decrease your blood sugar levels while increasing your energy level and elevating the moodiness common to many women during premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

• 3

  Manage Those Carbohydrate Cravings

  During the premenstrual cycle, as part of the symptoms of PMS, many women discover they have an increased craving for carbohydrates and fats. This can significantly affect blood sugar levels, especially when combined with inactivity. Eating low-carbohydrate/low-fat alternatives, such as raw vegetables or popcorn, may help alleviate your appetite and the accompanying rise in blood sugar that occurs with binging on unhealthful carbohydrates. Try to maintain a regular meal schedule to avoid reaching for those unhealthy carbohydrates during moments of hunger; eating several smaller meals at regular intervals throughout the day is often helpful.

• 4

  Boost Your Mood

  Mood swings are another symptom many women experience during the premenstrual cycle, which can lead to overeating high-carbohydrate/high-sugar foods. Often helpful is the elimination of chocolate, caffeine and alcohol from the diet at this time. Maintain a regular exercise program, which will not only improve blood glucose tolerance, but enhance one's feeling of well-being.

• 5

  Check Yourself

  It is important to see your doctor or diabetes specialist if you are having difficulty controlling your blood sugar. Bring documented readings of continuous blood glucose levels and your various symptoms. That way, the doctor can make an accurate assessment of your condition and prescribe the best treatment possible.