High blood sugar in the morning is caused by hormones that help the body feel energized and a carbohydrate-rich breakfast. For people with diabetes, insulin prevents energy absorption. Avoiding refined carbohydrates, eating a high-protein breakfast, exercising, and getting enough rest can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Having high blood sugar in the morning is not only a condition that affects diabetics, it usually occurs in most individuals due to certain hormones. These hormones play a vital role in helping the body feel energized, which then contributes to the rise in blood glucose levels. Eating a carbohydrate-rich breakfast is another major factor contributing to rising blood sugar in the morning, as carbohydrates are the macronutrients that break down quickly into blood sugar to be used for energy. Getting enough rest, maintaining a good diet, and exercising can all help relieve symptoms of high blood sugar in the morning, although they may not be the only treatments for people with diabetes.
In the two hours before waking up in the morning, the body releases three hormones essential to help produce energy and wakefulness. These hormones, called cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine, are essential hormones that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and aid in the fight or flight response. When these hormones surge in the body, blood sugar often rises in response and secretes insulin to help get that blood sugar into cells for energy use throughout the day. This can be difficult for people with diabetes, as their insulin works against them and prevents this energy from being absorbed into cells.
When high blood sugar occurs in the morning in those who have blood sugar and insulin problems, symptoms of lethargy or fatigue may occur because the cells are not getting the energy they need. Research suggests that a high-carb breakfast, particularly those containing refined carbohydrates such as most grains and sugars, also contributes to high blood sugar in the morning. This is because carbohydrates, excluding fiber, break down quickly into glucose which raises blood sugar and insulin levels.
Treating high blood sugar in the morning can be as easy as avoiding foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as those found in grain products and sugars, all day or at least early in the morning. A high-protein breakfast can help stabilize blood sugar levels in most individuals, however, additional treatment may be required for those with diabetes. A good exercise program also helps normalize blood sugar levels and puts them in a healthier range. Getting adequate rest at night and relieving stress during the day can also help lower blood sugar levels.
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