The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Have you ever wondered what happens to your blood sugar levels while you’re catching some ZZZ’s? There’s a lot more going on than you might think. Let’s dig into why you might feel great or groggy in the morning.
The glucose gatekeeper
First things first, let's talk about insulin. This hormone’s job is to ensure that glucose, our body's primary source of energy, gets to where it needs to go. And even while you’re asleep, insulin is still hard at work, making sure your blood sugar levels stay in check.
The sleep-glucose cycle
Sleep and blood sugar are intricately connected, forming a cyclical relationship: in the same way sleep affects blood sugar levels, blood sugar levels also have an impact on sleep. There’s lots of research to suggest that people with elevated glucose levels may experience poorer sleep and have less energy as well.
Rise and shine
Ever heard of the dawn phenomenon? It's like your body’s built-in alarm clock, but instead of waking you up with a gentle chime, it gives your liver a nudge to start producing glucose. This natural process happens between 3 a.m. and 8 a.m., giving your body the energy it needs to wake up and seize the day.
For most people without diabetes, insulin steps in to handle the surge of glucose. It signals your muscle, fat, and liver cells to absorb the excess, keeping your blood sugar levels stable.
Sweet dreams
Understanding the relationship between glucose and sleep can help you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way. So next time you tuck yourself in for the night, remember that your glucose levels are hard at work, doing their thing to ensure you wake up feeling your best.
Curated & reviewed by: Jennifer Wenzel-Wamhoff
PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES
PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES
Jennifer Wenzel-Wamhoff is a highly experienced pharmacist with BC-ADM and CDCES diabetes certifications.
