According to Diabetes.org.uk, 3.9 million people in the UK are diagnosed with diabetes.
Once you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it is vital to manage it by knowing what can affect your blood glucose levels and how to control them.
Hyperglycemia is the medical term for high glucose levels, and it is a common problem for people with diabetes. It can also affect people who do not have diabetes, usually, people who are seriously ill such as those who have recently had a heart attack, stroke or a severe infection.
Some reasons why your blood sugar level might increase include:
- Food
- Illness
- Physical inactivity
What can cause rises in blood sugar levels?
As we have said before, it is entirely normal for blood glucose levels to vary for everyone throughout the day.
However, if your blood glucose levels rise and you are not sure what is causing this, it could be:
#Conditions and Medications
Certain health conditions and different medications can affect your blood glucose levels. For example, the menstrual cycle and pregnancy can affect your blood glucose levels.
If you suffer from gastroparesis, which is delayed emptying of the stomach, then this can also lead to unpredictable sugar levels.
Missing out on a dose of medication or taking medication at irregular times can also lead to fluctuating sugar levels.
Where you inject your insulin can also affect blood glucose levels as it can affect how quickly the insulin is absorbed. The insulin may get absorbed faster in different parts of your body.
#Food
Foods high in carbohydrates, such as bread, rice and sugar, can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Overeating and snacking in between meals can also affect blood sugar levels.
Alcohol can also affect sugar levels for several hours after you stop drinking.
Diabetes UK has some great information about eating with diabetes, helping you make healthy food choices for a balanced diet.
#Illness
You may be surprised to hear that catching a cold or the flu can have an adverse effect on your blood sugar levels sometimes.
This is because when you are ill, your body releases extra glucose into your blood to combat the illness. If you have diabetes already, this will result in an unwanted rise in blood sugar levels.
#Physical Inactivity
Being active when diagnosed with diabetes can make your body more sensitive to insulin (the drug that helps manage your diabetes).
If you have taken a break from physical activity and been less active as usual, then this can cause your blood sugar levels to rise.
Buy an At Home Blood Glucose Test
References
- NHS – Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)
- Diabetes.co.uk – What affects blood sugar levels
- Diabetes UK – Type 1 diabetes