As a dietitian working closely with individuals managing prediabetes and diabetes, I have encountered a recurring issue that perplexes many of my clients: high morning blood sugar levels. Despite their best efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage their condition, the rise in blood sugar upon waking can be discouraging.
In this blog post, I aim to provide clarity and valuable insights into the reasons behind high morning blood sugar in people who have prediabetes and diabetes. By understanding the underlying factors, we can empower ourselves to take targeted actions towards better blood sugar control.
- The Dawn Phenomenon:
One common culprit of high morning blood sugar is the dawn phenomenon. During the early morning hours, hormones such as cortisol, growth hormone, and adrenaline are released in the body. These hormones stimulate the liver to produce and release glucose into the bloodstream, preparing us for the day ahead. For people with diabetes, this natural process can result in higher than normal blood sugar levels, as the body’s insulin response may be impaired. Strategies such as adjusting medication timing or dosage with the guidance of a healthcare professional and taking a closer look at your diet can help manage this phenomenon effectively. - The Somogyi Effect:
The Somogyi effect, also known as rebound hyperglycemia, is another factor contributing to elevated morning blood sugar in people who have prediabetes and diabetes. It occurs when blood sugar drops too low during the night, triggering the release of counter-regulatory hormones, including glucagon, cortisol, and adrenaline. As a protective mechanism, these hormones stimulate the liver to release stored glucose, leading to a rise in blood sugar levels by morning. Depending on your condition, evaluating your dinner and potentially adding a balanced snack that includes complex carbohydrates with protein/fat in the evening or adjusting insulin regimens with the guidance of a healthcare professional can help.
- Evening Snacking and Late-night Eating:
Dietary choices play a crucial role in blood sugar management, and this holds true for high morning blood sugar as well. Consuming late-night snacks or having meals that are high in carbohydrates, especially those that are refined and have little or no fiber, can cause blood sugar levels to spike. The body may struggle to regulate these surges during the night, leading to elevated morning readings. A balanced evening meal that includes fiber-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats while minimizing simple sugars and refined carbohydrates can promote better blood sugar control.
- Lack of Physical Activity:
Regular physical activity is a key component of blood sugar management. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, enabling the body to utilize glucose effectively and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Insufficient physical activity or a sedentary lifestyle can lead to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to process glucose and resulting in elevated morning blood sugar levels. Regular aerobic exercise, strength training, or even short walks after meals can positively impact blood sugar control, including the morning readings.
High morning blood sugar levels in individuals who have prediabetes or diabetes can be a complex puzzle to solve. Talk to your physician and/or dietitian to understand which of these underlying factors may be the cause of your high morning blood sugar. If you are taking insulin, your healthcare provider may adjust the time and dosage of your medication. But don’t forget to take a closer look at what you’re eating! Dietitians like myself can guide you towards effective blood sugar management strategies through personalized recommendations, education, and ongoing support. If you’re looking to work with an expert in blood sugar management, reach out to me here!