Bedtime Boost: Preventing Nocturnal Hypoglycemia in Diabetes Management

January 16, 2025

Nocturnal hypoglycemia—a condition where blood sugar levels drop dangerously low during sleep—is a significant concern for people with diabetes, especially those who are hospitalized. These overnight dips in blood sugar can pose serious health risks, requiring proactive measures to ensure safety.

Recognizing the impact of this challenge, Colette Banda, Registered Dietitian at Jefferson County Health Center, developed an innovative project to address this issue. Titled Bedtime Boost: A Strategy for Hypoglycemia Prevention, her initiative focuses on improving patient care by introducing a structured protocol that reduces the risk of low blood sugar during the night.

Tackling Hypoglycemia with Bedtime Snacks

The cornerstone of Colette's approach is a simple yet effective strategy: providing bedtime snacks that combine carbohydrates and protein. These snacks help stabilize blood sugar levels overnight, preventing dangerous drops. Supported by clinical guidelines, this proactive measure is designed to enhance the safety and well-being of patients with diabetes.

However, Colette’s project goes beyond offering snacks—it establishes a sustainable system to ensure this essential step is consistently implemented. By integrating tools like electronic medical record reminders, educating staff, and encouraging collaboration between nursing and dietary teams, Jefferson County Health Center has significantly increased the number of patients with diabetes receiving bedtime snacks.

The results speak for themselves: fewer instances of severe hypoglycemia during the night, improved patient outcomes, and a more cohesive approach to care. Sharing these results at the Iowa Healthcare Collaborative Patient Safety Conference was a proud moment for Colette, showcasing how small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference in patient safety.

Tips for Preventing Hypoglycemia at Home

While this protocol has been transformative in a hospital setting, the concept can also be applied at home for those managing diabetes. A small, balanced snack before bed can help stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the night. Consider these simple options:

• Yogurt with granola: Combines quick-digesting carbohydrates with protein for lasting support.
• Half a sandwich with lean protein: Provides energy and satiety.
• Whole-grain crackers with cheese: Offers a mix of carbohydrates and protein in a convenient, easy-to-prepare option.

If you or a loved one experiences signs of low blood sugar—such as shakiness, sweating, or dizziness—early in the morning, or if blood sugar readings are consistently low upon waking, discuss this strategy with your healthcare provider. Keeping a log of nighttime and morning blood sugar readings can help tailor recommendations to your specific needs.

A Healthier Tomorrow

The success of the Bedtime Boost project at Jefferson County Health Center demonstrates the importance of innovation and collaboration in improving patient care. By addressing nocturnal hypoglycemia through structured interventions, Colette Banda has shown how thoughtful solutions can lead to meaningful results.

Whether managing diabetes in a hospital or at home, a bedtime snack could be the key to preventing low blood sugar and ensuring a healthier, safer night.