Diabetics beware: Too much stress can cause a sugar spike

Stress relief is a crucial and often forgotten component of diabetes management, say researchers of a new study. Read on to know more.

By: Jahnavi Sarma | | Updated: July 15, 2020 9:28 am

According to a new study, there is a clear link between the stress hormone cortisol and higher blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. @Shutterstock

When you have type 2 diabetes, your body is unable to use insulin properly. Some people can manage their blood sugar levels with healthy eating and exercise, while others may need medication or insulin to help manage it. Most people with Type 2 diabetes know the importance of exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting plenty of rest. But stress relief is a crucial and often forgotten component of diabetes management, say researchers of a new study. Whether it’s a yoga class, taking a walk or reading a book, finding ways to lower your stress levels is important to everyone’s overall health, especially for those with type 2 diabetes. Also Read - World Hepatitis Day 2020: Is there a link between hepatitis C and diabetes?

According to this new study from the Ohio State University, there is a clear link between the stress hormone cortisol and higher blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Earlier research has shown that stress and depression are two of the major causes of a flatter cortisol profile. The journal Psychoneuroendocrinology published this study. Also Read - Taking whey protein at night may lead to diabetes, heart disease

High levels of cortisol lead to higher blood sugar levels

According to researchers, in healthy people, cortisol fluctuates naturally throughout the day, spiking in the morning and falling at night. But in people with type 2 diabetes, cortisol profiles that were flatter throughout the day and they had higher glucose levels. These sustained levels of cortisol make it much more difficult to control blood sugar and manage the disease, which is why it is so important for those with type 2 diabetes to find ways to reduce stress. Researchers have now begun a new trial to examine if mindfulness practices can lower blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes. But they add that this isn’t the only effective form of stress relief. It’s important to find something you enjoy and make it a part of your everyday routine. Also Read - Interpersonal stressors related to self-isolation increase risk of COVID-19

Link between stress hormone and high blood sugar

The relationship of cortisol with glucose levels was only observed in those with diabetes. However, the research team believe the stress hormone likely plays an important role in diabetes prevention and they continue to research the connection between cortisol and the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Lower your stress naturally

Stress is a inevitable in modern society. Thanks to pressure at work and home, running behind deadlines and trying to meet unrealistic deadlines, nobody can really escape it. But you can try and avoid some of the triggers and also prevent stress by acting consciously. This will help you avoid not only high blood sugar but also other health conditions like hypertension, anxiety and heart disease. One way to beat stress is by becoming more organized in life. You can also go in for relaxing activities like meditation, listening to music and yoga. Find something that you love doing and cultivate a hobby. You will be amazed at the results. Make more friends, socialize and spend some time in nature. All this will help you bring down your stress levels and also avoid it.

(With inputs from IANS)

Published : July 14, 2020 2:20 pm | Updated:July 15, 2020 9:28 am

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