How to manage blood glucose control after pancreatectomy
Nov 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
After pancreatectomy, insufficient insulin secretion may occur, requiring insulin use as directed by a physician. Dosage and injection frequency should be adjusted according to blood glucose levels to maintain glucose within a reasonable range, avoiding significant fluctuations caused by self-adjusting the dose. Choose low-sugar, high-fiber foods rich in high-quality protein, control carbohydrate intake, and avoid sweets and refined grains such as white rice and flour products that can rapidly raise blood sugar.
After pancreatic surgery, blood glucose control can generally be achieved through insulin replacement therapy, dietary adjustments, regular blood glucose monitoring, moderate exercise, and periodic follow-up visits for treatment adjustments. The details are as follows:
1. Insulin Replacement Therapy: After pancreatectomy, insufficient insulin secretion requires insulin administration as prescribed by a doctor. Dosage and injection frequency should be adjusted based on blood glucose levels to maintain glucose within a target range. Do not adjust the dose independently, as this may cause severe fluctuations in blood glucose.
2. Dietary Adjustment: Choose low-sugar, high-fiber foods rich in high-quality protein. Control carbohydrate intake and avoid high-glycemic foods such as sweets and refined grains (e.g., white rice and flour products). Eat small, frequent meals at regular intervals to reduce the metabolic burden on blood glucose.
3. Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of fasting, postprandial, and pre-sleep blood glucose levels is necessary after surgery. Record glucose trends to guide insulin dosage adjustments and optimize dietary plans, enabling timely detection of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
4. Moderate Exercise Regulation: After recovery, engage in mild physical activities such as walking or tai chi to promote glucose utilization and stabilize blood glucose levels. Schedule exercise outside the peak action periods of insulin, and have a small snack before exercising to prevent hypoglycemia.
5. Regular Follow-Up and Adjustment: Attend scheduled medical check-ups to monitor blood glucose, HbA1c, and other indicators. Report blood glucose records and overall health status to the physician, who will evaluate and adjust the treatment plan accordingly to ensure long-term stable glycemic control.
Long-term, consistent, and scientific management is essential for effective blood glucose control. Avoid interrupting treatment or changing regimens arbitrarily. Maintain regular eating and exercise habits to prevent sudden factors that may cause glucose fluctuations. If symptoms of hypoglycemia such as palpitations or sweating occur, or if hyperglycemia persists, take immediate corrective actions and seek medical attention promptly.
