How Does Gastroparesis Affect Blood Sugar Control?
Richard K. Bernstein, M.D., F.A.C.E., F.A.C.N., FCCWS has the answer this week. Diabetes Solution Revised and Updated 2007 Complete Guide to Achieving Normal Blood Sugars Richard K. Bernstein, M.D., F.A.C.E., F.A.C.N., FCCWS. Chapter 22, Part 2 HOW DOES GASTROPARESIS AFFECT BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL? Consider the individual who has very little phase I insulin release and must take fast-acting insulin or one of the older-type (sulfonylurea) or newer pancreas-provoking OHAs before each meal. If he were to take his medication and then skip the meal, his blood sugar would plummet. When the stomach empties too slowly, it can have almost the same effect as skipping a meal. If we knew when the stomach would empty, we could delay the insulin shot or add some NPH insulin to the regular to slow down its action. The big problem with gastroparesis, however, is its unpredictability. We never know when, or how fast, the stomach will empty. If the pyloric valve is not in spasm, the stomach contents may emp
