Biphasic Spikes: What does it mean to have two glucose spikes after a meal? — Ultrahuman

People who are wearing CGM devices may notice various types of graphs with different peaks, valleys and curves. Some individuals may witness two particular kinds of graphs when they consume carbohydrates. They may either see a monophasic glucose spike or a biphasic glucose spike. But what do these terms mean and why are they important?

Monophasic glucose spikes vs biphasic glucose spikes

A monophasic glucose spike is a blood glucose pattern with a single peak that emerges after a high carbohydrate dietary intake. It simply shows a singular peak, which is followed by a decline in the graph. This type of a glucose spike may provide an insight into the inner workings of your metabolic fitness.

A biphasic curve is defined as a curve that shows a peak around 30–60 minutes after a meal, which then decreases and is followed by another elevation, 90–120 minutes later.

Studies suggested that individuals with monophasic curves had higher fasting and 2-h plasma glucose levels. They also presented lower insulin sensitivity, beta-cell function (cells that make insulin), HDL cholesterol (this is considered as good cholesterol), adiponectin (breaks down fatty acid and regulates blood glucose) and pancreatic polypeptide levels (impacts liver glycogen storage).

The intensity of metabolic dysfunction was observed to be higher in subjects from the study with monophasic curves. These subjects seem to also have a higher prevalence of metabolic dysfunction and disrupted glucose metabolism.

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A study showed that after a glucose test, obese individuals who experienced monophasic curves had lower insulin sensitivity and pancreatic beta-function than individuals with biphasic curves. A glucose tolerance test is when individuals are tested on their blood glucose levels after consuming 75 grams of glucose. The monophasic individuals were also shown to be more likely to have an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes.

Another study assessing the shape of the glucose curve during an oral glucose tolerance test, observed two groups — one with normal glucose tolerance and the other with impaired glucose tolerance. Then, the individuals were segmented into monophasic or biphasic groups. Not only did the individuals who displayed a biphasic curve have a stronger percentage of normal glucose tolerance but they also were found to be younger with a lower BMI, lower plasma glucose as well as haemoglobin a1c. They also had better insulin sensitivity than the monophasic group.

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