Glucose basics
Understanding the glucose graph: Glucose patterns and trends
Mar. 4, 2025 • 4 min read
The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Glucose biosensors have transformed the approach to understanding and managing glucose levels—whether you’re living with diabetes or simply curious about your health. Tools like Stelo make it easy to get 24/7 glucose data and valuable insights into how your body reacts to things like meals, activity, sleep, and even stress.
But once you have that data, what do you do with it? What can those fluctuations on your blood glucose graph tell you? Let’s break it down and explore how understanding these patterns can lead to healthier habits.
What is a glucose graph?
Simply put, a glucose graph is a visual representation in the Stelo app of your glucose levels over time. You could even think of it as a personal health map that reflects how your body reacts to various foods, responds to activity, and copes with stress. It can be a real a-ha moment to see so clearly why you’re feeling a certain way. Pretty soon, you’ll start to recognize trends and patterns that can help you fine-tune your habits.
Key features of a glucose graph include:
- Pre-meal levels: Typically, steady and without large fluctuations.
- Post-meal spikes: Temporary rises that usually settle back down after a few hours.
- Smooth transitions: Gradual shifts without extreme highs or lows.
Spotting common glucose patterns
When you start tracking your glucose with Stelo, you may notice recurring patterns in your glucose levels. These clues can help you understand how your daily choices impact your body’s metabolism. Here are some common patterns to watch for:
- Morning highs: A spike in glucose levels after waking up.
- Post-meal spikes: Larger increases after eating, which may point to a sensitivity to certain foods or ingredients.
- Nighttime lows: Drops during sleep that may be influenced by a variety of factors, such physical activity or certain medications.
Visualize the story your body is telling you
Your glucose graph isn’t just about numbers—it’s about understanding how your habits shape your health. While trends give you a snapshot of your day, patterns reveal the bigger picture. By looking at data over weeks or months, you can spot recurring issues or celebrate progress.
For example, frequent spikes after meals could mean it’s time to experiment with portion sizes or balance carbs with protein and fats. Gradually rising fasting levels might signal a need for lifestyle adjustments, such as getting more physical activity and optimizing food choices.
Here are two specific ways to use your glucose graph:
1. Observe your glucose curve
Look for steep peaks, valleys, or smooth waves. These shapes tell you how your body is reacting.
2. Note key events
Using the Stelo app, mark events like meals, workouts, or stressful moments to see how they affect your levels.
Taking charge of your glucose journey
Decoding your glucose data doesn’t have to be intimidating. With Stelo, you’ve got a tool that makes it easy to understand exactly what works (and doesn’t) for you, and that offers personalized insights designed to help you create lasting healthy habits. Whether you’re aiming to keep your glucose in a tighter range or just curious about your trends, understanding your data can empower you to make choices that support your goals.
So, embrace this journey and harness the power of your glucose graph to gain insights and build habits that keep you thriving every day.
Curated & reviewed by: Cher Pastore,
MS, RD, BC-ADM, CDCES
MS, RD, BC-ADM, CDCES
Cher Pastore is a registered dietitian (RD) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES).
