​Diabetes: Why does blood sugar level fluctuate in the morning?​

It usually starts with minimum fluctuations in blood sugar, which many people ignore. But it is important to track this because if the blood sugar remains high consistently it can push the Hb1Ac count to a dangerous level. We spoke to an expert on why this fluctuation happens.

Diabetes is spreading like an epidemic. Billions of people are dealing with this lifestyle disorder on a daily basis and several studies have estimated a higher incidence of the disease in the next decade. In India, more than 100 million adults are having diabetes and 136 million people are in pre-diabetes zone, which means they can get diabetic quickly.

Morning blood sugar levels frequently change as a result of a number of variables. The dawn phenomenon, in which hormonal releases like cortisol and growth hormone cause the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream in the early morning, is one important aspect, says Dr. Bimal Chhajer, former consultant at AIIMS & Director, SAAOL Heart Centre, New Delhi.

“Additionally, cortisol, which naturally peaks in the early morning, can contribute to insulin resistance, potentially causing higher blood sugar readings. For some individuals, there may be a delay in the insulin response to meals consumed the previous evening, further contributing to elevated morning blood sugar levels,” he explains.

The Somogyi effect, which occurs when blood sugar levels fall throughout the night and are then raised by hormones that serve as counter-regulators in the morning, is another factor, the doctor explains.

“Overnight physical activity and the timing of medicine dosages also contribute to these variations. Additionally, dietary decisions, particularly eating foods high in carbohydrates before bed, might affect blood sugar levels in the morning. Careful monitoring and a mix of dietary changes, medication management, and medical advice are frequently used to regulate these swings,” says Dr Chhajer.

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Health experts advise against the consumption of carbohydrates at bedtime. Having breakfast on time helps keep the blood sugar at a normal level. Experts also advise doing few low-impact exercise like walking after dinner and also suggest having dinner early in the evening.