Stress Affects Glucose Control in Diabetes

Lawrence Greenblatt, MD, FACP

Professor of Medicine

Stress can make your blood sugar go up, whether you're feeling stressed out about something in your life or if your body is under stress from being sick or hurt. This happens because when you're stressed, your body makes more of a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol can make it harder for insulin, a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy, to do its job. This means too much sugar stays in your blood, which isn't good, especially for people with diabetes.

There are two main kinds of stress: the kind you feel in your mind, like when you're worried or upset, and the kind that affects your body, like when you're sick or have been exercising a lot. Both kinds can make your blood sugar level go up or down too much, which is not healthy. For people with type 1 diabetes, stress can sometimes make their blood sugar go too low, which is also dangerous. And for people with type 2 diabetes, stress can make their blood sugar go too high because their body isn't using insulin the right way.

If you're feeling stressed and it's making your blood sugar go up, it's important to take care of yourself. You should try to eat healthy, exercise, check your blood sugar often, and take your medicine like your doctor tells you to. These things can help keep your blood sugar at a good level, even when you're stressed.

Lastly, finding ways to deal with stress can help you feel better and keep your blood sugar in check. Doing things like planning ahead, doing calming exercises like yoga, and setting goals for yourself can all help. Remember, everyone feels stressed sometimes, but taking steps to manage your stress and your health can make a big difference.

From Verywell Health.  For the complete article click here.