Importance of Postprandial Glucose Control

Early in the development of type 2 diabetes, the initial burst of insulin release in response to food intake is compromised, allowing postprandial hyperglycemia to develop. Meal-associated hyperglycemia further contributes to increase insulin resistance and decrease insulin production. Evidence of a strong correlation between high postprandial glycemic levels and the development of vascular complications underscores the significance of treating mealtime glycemia.

Current recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (ADA), which have been used predominantly in the United States, present goals for fasting/preprandial and bedtime glucose levels but do not define a target for postprandial glucose. The ADA guidelines also present a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) goal of <7%. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the American College of Endocrinology (ACE) have each published guidelines that define targets for both fasting/preprandial and 2-h postprandial blood glucose and present 6.5% as their A1C goal for glycemic control.

Joining Dr Carlos Hamilton to discuss the significance of postprandial glucose control are Dr Eric Orzek and Dr Philip Levy, both clinical endocrinologist and specialist in the treatment of diabetes.

Related References/Reading:

1. Parkin CG and Brooks N. Is Postprandial Glucose Control Important? Is It Practical In Primary Care Settings? Clinical Diabetes. 2002;20:71-76.
2. Leiter LA et al. Postprandial Glucose Regulation: New Data and New Implications.Clin Ther.205;Suppl 2:S42-56.