How in the world can your blood sugar climb during the night when you’re not eating a thing?
Before blaming the carbs in last night’s dinner, consider these other common culprits.
Waking up and seeing a high blood sugar reading can be … puzzling.
Katy Dockrill
However, it is not as uncommon as you think.
All night long, the liver releases sugar to provide the brain and nervous system with energy.
This rise from hormones is called the dawn phenomenon.
Katy Dockrill
Possible solutions:Consider your medications.
(Basal insulin covers your insulin needs around the clock, including while you sleep.)
Some drugslike metforminreduce insulin resistance and also prevent the liver from releasing excess sugar.
Illustrations Katy Dockrill.
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And when you exercise regularly, your body naturally stays more sensitive to insulin.
But if you miss your regular workout, you might see a jump in your usual blood sugar levels.
This can happen in the morning (but could also happen at any time of day).
Possible solutions:Find an exercise routine that you like and can stick to.
Even carving out a few minutes to be active may help prevent you from waking up to high numbers.
Delayed Effects of Fatty Foods
Blood sugar levels typically peak within an hour or so after eating.
Large amounts of dietary fat can make it harder for insulin to do its job, explains Scheiner.
Plus, fat slows down digestion and absorption, which could cause blood sugar to peak later than usual.
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4.
If you’re unable to adjust your prescriptions, a carb-containing snack at bedtime may do the trick.
“We must take a holistic view and play detective,” he adds.
Measure your blood sugar often and keep notes about medications, exercise, and food intake.
Share all of this information with your health care team and allow them to play detective with you.
