6 Things That Can Spike Your Blood Sugar
6 Things That Can Spike Your Blood Sugar


Over time, managing diabetes can become predictable and rhythmic. By testing your blood sugar regularly, those living with diabetes learn how things like food and stress can impact blood sugar levels. On top of maintaining a regular blood sugar testing routine, a healthy meal plan and insulin schedule, it’s smart to stay aware of how other, less obvious, factors can impact your blood sugar. Some of which may surprise you!

Here’s a list of external factors that can affect your blood sugar from the Center for Disease Control.

Time of day — First thing in the morning, many people – with and without diabetes –experience surges in hormones. For type 1 diabetics, this hormone surge can cause a blood sugar spike. Later in the day, blood sugar can be harder to manage overall. Be mindful of these patterns as you manage your blood sugar.

Excessive Sun Exposure – Sunburn pain is stressful to the body and stress causes blood sugar to spike. Be smart when you’re in the sun – take breaks, find shade, and always be sure to use SPF.

Lack of Sleep – Missing a good night’s rest can trigger insulin resistance. Keep your levels steady by committing to a regular bedtime.

Caffeine – Some people’s blood sugar can be affected by caffeine. Depending on the person, blood sugar can either surge or crash post caffeine consumption. To keep your blood sugar steady, swap highly caffeinated coffee and black tea for beverages with lower caffeine levels, like herbal teas.

Not Drinking Enough Water — Dehydration negatively impacts many bodily systems, but for diabetics, dehydration can be dangerous. When a diabetic is dehydrated, the body experiences a higher blood sugar concentration. Avoid dehydration by always carrying a water bottle and tracking water intake.

Nose Spray — Believe it or not, some nose sprays contain chemicals that trigger the liver to produce blood sugar.

With a regular schedule, healthy habits, and staying aware of factors that can spike blood sugar, maintaining steady, manageable blood sugar is possible. Aiming for predictable blood sugar levels is a great way to minimize the stress that can occur around managing diabetes.

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/spotlights/blood-sugar.html
https://beyondtype1.org/10-things-that-can-spike-your-blood-sugar