Big Meals VS Small Meals: What’s Better for Blood Sugar Control? Study Reveals the Truth

What you eat and how frequently you eat, both are important for controlling blood sugar levels. One of the most frequently asked questions for individuals with diabetes or those at risk is whether it is preferable to eat one large meal per day or to divide food intake into smaller, more frequent meals. While some argue that distributing meals evenly throughout the day helps stabilise blood sugar, others highlight the advantages of intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating, which may improve insulin sensitivity by reducing the number of meals. 

How Food Impacts Blood Sugar Levels

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that diabetes is a chronic illness caused by either the body's ineffective use of insulin or the pancreas's insufficient production of the hormone. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar. Insulin production is immensely impacted by our food consumption. Our bodies convert carbohydrates, particularly those found in food, into glucose when we eat, which then enter the bloodstream. The hormone insulin, which aids cells in absorbing glucose for energy or storage, is released by the pancreas in response to this increase in blood glucose. The degree of this insulin response depends on the kind and quantity of food ingested. However, the manner in which food should be consumed by those who struggle with blood sugar levels has been a subject of debate in the medical community for a long time.

Previously, different studies have shown different results when it comes to an ideal diet plan for blood sugar control. Some claim big meals are better while others claim smaller meals are more effective. A Chinese study, however, analysed both approaches and tried to test which one works the best.

Also Read: What Is Type 1 Diabetes?

Big Meals vs Small Meals: What’s Better For Diabetes? 

The Shanghai based study set out to determine what type of dietary approach works better when it comes to controlling diabetes. The goal of this study was to improve the management of postprandial glucose (PPG) excursions, or blood sugar levels after meals, in individuals with Type-2 diabetes. Serious health issues like kidney problems, nerve damage, and heart disease can result from these blood sugar spikes.

Data from 67 adults in Shanghai who wore continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for roughly 13 days were used. Blood sugar levels were monitored by these devices every few minutes. Meals and prescriptions were also recorded by the participants. 

Interestingly, the study concluded that each individual’s diet plan reacted differently in relationship to their blood sugar levels. The researchers determined that one’s age, physical activity, metabolism, all were important factors in determining the ideal diet of a patient. And hence, reinforcing that generic diet advice doesn’t work for everyone, and that personalised approaches were more effective. The study suggests that using smart technology like CGMs and ML can help tailor dietary advice to each person’s unique needs, making it easier to manage diabetes in everyday life.

Also Read: Should You Fast During Sawan? Health Considerations For Diabetics And Women 

Bottomline

The study might not have given a clear cut answer as to whether one should prefer big meals with intermittent fasting or small meals with short breaks. It rather said that no single shoe fits all however, that may actually be an important factor in the treatment of diabetes going forward. The researchers advocated for a more personlised approach in managing blood sugar levels. They added that this is an opportunity for innovators to design apps and technology that monitors patients at the individual level and guides them better in managing type 2 diabetes.