What can I do if I have diabetes and my glucose rises before my period?

Strategies for Highs before Your Period

• If you use insulin, gradually increase your dose. Work with your health care team to add small increments, so that insulin levels are higher the last few days of your cycle, when blood glucose levels normally rise. One to two addi­tional units of insulin may be all it takes. It will take a little trial and error to figure out the right dose for you. As soon as menstruation begins, estrogen and ­progesterone levels drop. When this happens, return to your usual dose of insulin to lower your risk of ­hypoglycemia.
• Eat at regular intervals, when possible. This will keep your blood glucose levels from swinging too much. Large blood glucose swings could contribute to some of the emotional and physical symptoms of PMS, which may in turn make variations in blood glucose levels worse.
• Try to avoid eating extra carbohydrates. Keep a handy ­supply of crunchy veggies—for example, celery, radishes, or cucumbers—and dip them in fat-free salsa.
• Cut back on alcohol, chocolate, and caffeine. They can affect both your blood glucose levels and your mood.
• Be especially careful about your sodium intake, which causes ­bloating. Use pepper, fresh or powdered garlic, lemon, cayenne pepper, or scallions to add some zing to food.
• Try to be more physically active. Many women find that regular exercise diminishes mood swings, prevents excessive weight gain, and makes it easier to manage blood glucose levels.