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Glycemic Variability

Meaning

Glycemic Variability refers to the magnitude and frequency of fluctuations in blood glucose levels, encompassing both the rapid peaks (hyperglycemia) and the subsequent troughs (hypoglycemia) that occur over a given period. This measure is recognized as a critical parameter in metabolic health, often independently predictive of cardiovascular risk and microvascular complications, beyond the traditionally monitored metrics of fasting glucose and HbA1c. High variability indicates poor glucose homeostasis and places significant stress on the body’s insulin and counter-regulatory hormone systems. Monitoring this dynamic parameter, often with continuous glucose monitors, provides a more nuanced picture of an individual’s metabolic control.