For individuals with diabetes, monitoring blood sugar and keeping a food diary are essential parts of the treatment plan. This helps them understand their body and how their blood sugar responds to food and exercise. However, sometimes blood sugar can still rise for unknown reasons.
Several less commonly discussed factors can contribute to this. Here are 5 causes of high blood sugar and how to address them.
Illness or stress
During illness or stress, the body produces cortisol, a hormone associated with the stress response. Cortisol, along with inflammatory cells (cytokines), promotes glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen into glucose) and gluconeogenesis (the creation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources). The result is elevated blood sugar.
When sick, frequent monitoring is vital for blood sugar control. Choose foods and drinks with moderate carbohydrate content and limit sugary drinks like fruit juice, soda, or sugary coffee. Also, contact a doctor if blood sugar fluctuates significantly.
Dehydration
Staying hydrated is crucial for health. The body needs sufficient water for systems to function optimally, including temperature regulation, waste removal, digestion, oxygen delivery, and cell growth. When dehydrated, blood glucose concentration increases as the body tries to compensate for the fluid imbalance.
Ensure adequate daily water intake. Individual needs vary, but generally, pale yellow urine indicates sufficient hydration.
Another way to estimate water needs is about 30 ml per kilogram of body weight. For example, a 72.7 kg person needs about 9 cups of water daily. Set reminders to drink water or enhance its flavor with herbs and fruits. Herbal tea is also a good choice.
Medication
Some medications can elevate blood sugar, including steroids, mood stabilizers, statins, and diuretics, affecting the pancreas and endogenous glucose production.
Diuretics increase urination, helping lower blood pressure but potentially raising blood sugar as fluid leaves the bloodstream, making sugar more concentrated. Steroids can interfere with the pancreas's insulin secretion, leading to high blood sugar.
Doctors should consider medications that might raise blood sugar and offer alternatives with fewer side effects. Patients should discuss potential side effects with their doctor and when to seek medical advice.
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Medical staff at the pharmacy of 175 Military Hospital dispense medication to patients, 3/2024. Photo: Quynh Tran |
Hormones
Glucagon, amylin, epinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone all participate in blood sugar regulation. They are involved in the breakdown and production of glucose in the liver, as well as the body's sensitivity to insulin.
Women with type 1 diabetes might experience blood sugar fluctuations during their menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, hormones released by the placenta can raise the mother's blood sugar. Since all pregnant women undergo hormonal changes, regular blood glucose assessment is part of prenatal checkups.
Those needing specific nutritional guidance on managing blood sugar should consult a registered dietitian or healthcare provider with expertise.
Lack of sleep
Sleep is an essential biological need. Sleep deprivation impairs bodily systems, making cells less responsive to insulin, thus raising blood sugar.
Sleep hygiene is vital for sound sleep. If you frequently experience sleep disturbances, consider a sleep study to identify the root cause. Create a cool sleep environment free of technology and blue light. Avoid eating or drinking too close to bedtime, as this can disrupt sleep.
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