Is there a link between Stress and Diabetes?
Posted on: 12/Mar/2021 3:12:23 PM
Dr V Ashwin Karuppan, Diabetologist, Tambaram Medical Center, Chennai.
Stress is a reaction of our body against any challenges or demands that comes across. It is most commonly seen in people suffering from any lifelong disease or condition. The process of managing or dealing with any condition for a lifetime gets overwhelming and frustrating.
Diabetes is one such condition that demands lifelong attention. Stress of any kind may it be physical or mental has proven to fluctuate the blood sugar levels which can be a pain if one has diabetes. Stress can contribute to diabetes as well as be a consequence of it. Stress can be one of the major barriers in keeping sugar levels in control.
Scientific reports say that people who experience depression, anxiety, stress, or a combination of these conditions are at higher risk of developing diabetes.�
How would one know if stress is actually affecting their glucose levels?
Here`s how:
A very sorted and simple way to do this is by rating your stress level on a scale of 1 to 10 every time you test your blood sugar levels. Make a note of this number and write down your glucose reading right next to it. Continue doing this for a few weeks a pattern should emerge that allows you to see whether high levels of stress coincide with high sugar levels or vice versa.
High levels of stress may cause a person to live an unhealthy lifestyle and these lifestyle habits can increase their risk of developing diabetes. (highlighted statement)
Unhealthy lifestyle habits may include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, having a poor-quality diet, lack of physical activity etc.� Make sure to get rid of these habits and follow a healthy lifestyle routine as the first step towards wellbeing.
After which it will be easier to manage stress levels and in turn, manage the blood glucose levels well. A regular visit to a Diabetologist is also a critical part when it comes to managing diabetes.
Don�t let stress hamper diabetes care, follow these simple tips as a start:
Meditate to get rid of the negativity:
Meditating for about 15-minutes every morning can help relax the mind and get rid of the negative thoughts. Please note mindfulness-based stress reduction is linked with better improvements in weight, blood pressure and blood glucose levels
Yoga for wellness:
Yoga or other forms of exercise can help to deal with stress and can also help to lower the blood pressure. Yoga practices such as asanas, pranayama, mudras, and relaxation can help rereduce blood glucose levels.
Get set!
Physical activities like swimming, trekking, and running can help reduce stress. These recreational activities help one feel positive and at peace.
In life, we experience challenges and setbacks, but the power to choose how we respond to it lies within us. So be wise and choose wisely!
