Q&A with Top Doctors

Is the delayed insulin peak reversible?

Whether the delayed insulin peak is reversible depends on its cause and individual circumstances. Delayed insulin secretion peaks are commonly seen in the early stages of type 2 diabetes and in individuals with insulin resistance, primarily due to impaired pancreatic β-cell function, which causes the postprandial insulin peak to lag behind the blood glucose peak. This abnormality can exacerbate postprandial glucose fluctuations and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

If the delay is caused by early abnormalities in glucose metabolism or insulin resistance, it is usually reversible with timely intervention. For example, improving insulin sensitivity through lifestyle modifications or using medications such as metformin and GLP-1 receptor agonists to enhance β-cell function may allow gradual restoration of the insulin secretion pattern in some patients. Research indicates that early intensive intervention can significantly improve the timing of insulin secretion, especially in patients with shorter disease duration and preserved β-cell function.

However, if the β-cells have sustained severe damage due to long-term glucotoxicity or there are irreversible causes such as genetic factors, the delayed insulin peak may not be completely reversed, and long-term medication may be necessary for glycemic control. In addition, factors such as aging and obesity may also affect the effectiveness of reversal.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 11, 2025
What is the optimal fasting blood glucose level?

The optimal range for fasting blood glucose is generally considered to be 3.9–6.1 mmol/L. This range is based on medical research and clinical practice, ensuring that blood glucose levels are neither too high nor too low, thus maintaining normal physiological functions in the body.

Fasting blood glucose refers to the blood glucose level measured after at least 8 hours without consuming any caloric food. It reflects the basal insulin secretion function and the liver's ability to regulate glucose. When fasting blood glucose falls within this range, it indicates that the body's glucose regulation mechanism is functioning normally.

The optimal fasting blood glucose range may vary slightly among different populations, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with diabetes. Therefore, in clinical practice, evaluation and adjustment should be made according to individual circumstances. Additionally, a single fasting blood glucose measurement cannot fully reflect overall glucose status; multiple measurements and clinical symptoms are usually required for a comprehensive assessment.

Maintaining fasting blood glucose within the optimal range is important for the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders such as diabetes. In daily life, it is also essential to maintain a balanced diet, engage in appropriate physical activity, and undergo regular medical checkups to ensure stable and healthy blood glucose levels.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 11, 2025
Polyuria in Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetic patients may experience polyuria (excessive urination), primarily caused by hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). The main reasons include the following:

1. Elevated blood glucose: When blood sugar levels rise in diabetic patients, the glomerulus may undergo functional changes, increasing permeability and subsequently causing polyuria.

2. Insufficient insulin secretion: A deficiency in insulin secretion may prevent glucose from being fully utilized by tissues, causing water from the tissues to enter the bloodstream and eventually leading to increased urination after metabolic processes.

3. Increased water intake: Due to the high concentration of glucose in the blood of diabetic patients, changes in osmotic pressure stimulate the central nervous system, creating a sensation of thirst. This leads to polydipsia (excessive thirst) and consequently polyuria.

4. Kidney damage: When blood glucose levels remain consistently above the renal threshold, the kidneys are unable to completely reabsorb the excess glucose. Some glucose is excreted in the urine, resulting in osmotic diuresis.

5. Urinary tract infections: Diabetic patients are more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Inflammation caused by such infections may lead to symptoms like frequent urination and urgency, indirectly increasing urine output.

In conclusion, polyuria in diabetes is the result of multiple contributing factors. Patients should actively control blood sugar levels, protect kidney function, and be vigilant about urinary tract infections. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is advised.

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Dr. Yang Ziqi
Jun 11, 2025
Can high school students take vitamin supplements?

In general, if one's daily diet is balanced and includes sufficient vegetables, fruits, grains, and protein sources, additional vitamin supplementation theoretically is unnecessary. However, for students like Xiao Li whose nutrient absorption is affected by intense academic pressure and irregular lifestyles, appropriate use of vitamin supplements can be beneficial in boosting immunity and relieving fatigue.

If vitamin supplementation is necessary, it is recommended to choose suitable types and dosages under a doctor's guidance. Avoid taking supplements blindly to prevent adverse reactions or drug interactions. When taking vitamin supplements, follow medication instructions carefully, such as taking them after meals rather than on an empty stomach, to enhance vitamin absorption. Meanwhile, high school students should also maintain a balanced diet and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits to obtain more comprehensive nutritional support.

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Dr. Shen Yonghua
Jun 10, 2025
Does bitter melon lower blood sugar? Can eating bitter melon lower blood sugar?

Bitter melon has an auxiliary effect on blood glucose levels but cannot replace standard hypoglycemic treatments.

Bitter melon contains components such as momordicosides and polypeptide-P, which can promote glucose uptake and utilization, while inhibiting intestinal absorption of sugars. Additionally, the high dietary fiber content in bitter melon can delay carbohydrate absorption, preventing rapid post-meal blood sugar spikes. Its high vitamin C and chromium content also help improve insulin sensitivity.

However, the concentration of active components in bitter melon is limited and cannot substitute for antidiabetic medications or dietary management. Patients with diabetes must still strictly follow medical advice, take prescribed medications regularly, control their diet, and incorporate appropriate physical activity to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Therefore, bitter melon can be consumed in moderation as part of a blood sugar control diet. It is recommended to limit daily intake to 100-200 grams, with cooking methods such as stir-frying or cold mixing preferred, avoiding frying or adding sugar. However, blood sugar control should still primarily rely on standardized drug therapy, balanced diet, moderate exercise, and regular blood glucose monitoring, rather than depending on bitter melon as the main hypoglycemic approach.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025
Does pumpkin lower or raise blood sugar levels?

The impact of pumpkin on blood sugar cannot be generalized; it should be analyzed comprehensively based on its composition, quantity consumed, and individual differences.

Pumpkin contains high levels of dietary fiber and relatively low sugar content, which makes it somewhat beneficial for blood sugar control. Dietary fiber can delay the rate of gastric emptying, reduce the rapid absorption of sugars from food, and thus prevent a sharp rise in post-meal blood glucose levels. Moreover, some components in pumpkin may also promote insulin secretion or enhance cellular sensitivity to insulin, further aiding in blood glucose regulation.

However, pumpkin itself contains a certain amount of carbohydrates, including starches and sugars, which can be converted into glucose after consumption and consequently cause an increase in blood sugar levels. Especially when cooked, the sugars in pumpkin become more easily absorbed by the body, potentially leading to elevated blood glucose levels.

Therefore, for individuals with diabetes or those experiencing poor blood sugar control, it is important to consume pumpkin in moderation. It is recommended to include pumpkin as part of a balanced diet while paying attention to controlling total calorie and carbohydrate intake, avoiding excessive consumption.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025
Is a postprandial blood glucose level of 9.8 mmol/L normal for a healthy person?

Whether a postprandial blood glucose level of 9.8 mmol/L in a healthy individual is normal needs to be determined based on the timing of the test. If the blood glucose level of 9.8 mmol/L is measured 1 hour after a meal, it usually falls within the normal fluctuation range; however, if measured 2 hours after a meal, diabetes should be considered.

The normal blood glucose range 1 hour after a meal typically is between 6.7 and 9.4 mmol/L, and in some individuals may reach below 11.1 mmol/L. A level of 9.8 mmol/L falls within the normal fluctuation range and may be related to dietary composition. There is no need for excessive concern, but attention should be paid to the blood glucose level 2 hours after eating.

In healthy individuals, blood glucose levels 2 hours after a meal should be less than 7.8 mmol/L. Therefore, a blood glucose level of 9.8 mmol/L exceeds the normal range, suggesting possible impaired glucose tolerance or prediabetes. At this point, it is recommended to undergo further tests such as an oral glucose tolerance test to confirm the diagnosis and take appropriate treatment measures.

If the abnormality occurs 2 hours after a meal, it is important to control intake of high-sugar foods, increase physical activity, and monitor blood glucose regularly. If abnormalities persist or are accompanied by obesity or a family history, timely medical intervention is needed to prevent progression to diabetes.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025
Is a fasting blood glucose level of 5.6 mmol/L in pregnant women considered serious?

A fasting blood glucose level of 5.6 mmol/L in pregnant women is already higher than the normal standard and indicates abnormal glucose levels, although it cannot directly indicate the severity. Further tests are required to confirm a diagnosis and assess the risks.

The diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes are well established. A diagnosis can be made if any one of the following criteria is met: fasting blood glucose ≥5.1 mmol/L, blood glucose ≥10.0 mmol/L one hour after glucose intake, or blood glucose ≥8.5 mmol/L two hours after glucose intake. A fasting blood glucose level of 5.6 mmol/L has already exceeded the threshold of 5.1 mmol/L. At this point, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is required to confirm the diagnosis, which involves measuring blood glucose levels when fasting and at one and two hours after glucose intake. If one or more of the three measurements meet the criteria, gestational diabetes can be diagnosed.

If gestational diabetes is confirmed and blood glucose is not controlled in a timely manner, it can significantly affect both maternal and fetal health. For the fetus, it may lead to excessive fetal growth, increasing the risk of difficult labor and cesarean section; it can also cause delayed fetal lung maturation, preterm birth, and newborns are prone to hypoglycemia, jaundice, and other problems after birth. For the pregnant woman, high blood glucose during pregnancy increases the risk of preeclampsia and infections, and significantly increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

The first step is to adjust the diet, reducing intake of high-sugar foods such as refined rice, flour, and candy, and increasing consumption of whole grains and vegetables rich in dietary fiber. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help avoid large post-meal blood glucose fluctuations. Secondly, moderate exercise should be maintained, such as taking a 30-minute walk or engaging in low-intensity exercises like prenatal yoga daily, which can help lower blood glucose levels.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025
Is a fasting blood glucose level of 6.2 mmol/L serious?

Fasting blood glucose of 6.2 mmol/L has not yet reached the diagnostic criteria for diabetes and is generally not serious, but should be taken seriously as it falls within the range of abnormal blood glucose.

According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes, fasting blood glucose ≥7.0 mmol/L can be diagnosed as diabetes; while 6.1 mmol/L ≤ fasting blood glucose <7.0 mmol/L is referred to as impaired fasting glucose, which belongs to the prediabetic stage. Therefore, a level of 6.2 mmol/L falls within the prediabetic stage, typically not serious, but indicating abnormal glucose metabolism, which may progress to diabetes if no intervention is taken.

Improving diet and increasing physical activity can help regulate blood glucose levels. It is recommended to reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, and increase dietary fiber intake, such as eating more vegetables and whole grains. Additionally, engaging in moderate aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking or jogging, can help improve the body's sensitivity to insulin, thus assisting in lowering blood glucose levels.

If repeated blood glucose monitoring still shows elevated levels or if other diabetes-related symptoms appear, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or weight loss, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation. The doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan, including possible pharmacological treatment, based on the patient's specific condition.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025
Blood sugar level of 7.1 mmol/L: Is medication needed?

A blood glucose level of 71 mmol/L is an extremely critical condition that requires immediate medical attention and treatment, rather than simply considering whether to take medication.

Normal fasting blood glucose levels in the human body typically range from 3.9 to 6.1 mmol/L, while postprandial 2-hour blood glucose levels are generally below 7.8 mmol/L. When blood glucose reaches as high as 71 mmol/L, it far exceeds the safety threshold and may lead to acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, accompanied by dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, impaired consciousness, or even coma. Without timely treatment, this condition can be life-threatening.

Emergency interventions such as intravenous fluid replacement, insulin administration, and correction of electrolyte imbalances are necessary rather than oral hypoglycemic agents. At such high glucose levels, oral medications act slowly and may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys. Intravenous insulin infusion is the key to rapidly lowering blood glucose. During treatment, close monitoring of blood glucose, ketone bodies, blood gas analysis, and other parameters is required to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

It should be emphasized that such a drastic elevation in blood glucose is not accidental and is often associated with poor management of diabetes, infections, stress, or擅自停药 (discontinuation of medication without medical advice). After stabilization of the condition, patients should undergo further tests such as pancreatic function assessment and glycated hemoglobin measurement to develop a long-term glucose control plan, strictly adhering to dietary control, regular exercise, and blood glucose monitoring.

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Dr. Liu Feng
Jun 10, 2025