Postprandial Glucose: A Variable in Continuum.

Abstract

The global rise in diabetes mellitus presents a major healthcare challenge due to its associated complications. Effective glycemic control, crucial for reducing diabetes-related morbidity and mortality, encompasses 3 key components: fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). While FPG and HbA1c are commonly used for evaluating glycemic control, PPG also significantly influences overall glucose management. Postprandial hyperglycemia, the early deviation in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), plays a dominant role in individuals with near-target HbA1c levels. Advances in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) provide a more comprehensive understanding of PPG fluctuations, offering real-time data and reducing the limitations of traditional monitoring methods. CGM technology revolutionizes glycemic monitoring, enhancing the management of PPG and supporting better diabetes care. This review emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing PPG throughout the postprandial state in individuals with diabetes. It further consolidates evidence highlighting the importance of viewing PPG as a continuum and the potential of CGM in improving PPG management.