What is stress | Why can stress increase blood glucose | What to do
What is stress
This is the body’s response to danger. In order to mobilize its strength, the body releases the hormone adrenaline, which, in turn, raises blood glucose levels. This gives us a surge of strength and energy in order to cope with danger.
What happens in a person with diabetes? Same. Adrenaline rush, increased blood glucose.
But unlike a healthy person, the pancreas does not respond by releasing insulin to an increase in blood glucose. We need to inject insulin so that blood glucose returns to normal.
Each volume of hormones released, and the response of the glucose level are individual. It is important to observe the characteristics of your body and know its features and needs.
Why can stress increase blood glucose
Under stress, there is an inevitable increase in the concentration of hormones in the blood (cortisol, adrenaline, growth hormone), which lead to an increase in glucose levels.
Due to stress, you can stop taking care of yourself and monitor diabetes. Some “jam” problems, and this also leads to uncontrolled rises in glucose.
What to do
1. If stress has overtaken you, you can’t cope on your own, consult a psychologist. This is a person who is taught to help resolve stressful situations, deal with problems, and provide support.
2. If you have strength, and you understand that this is just the next stage in your life, a black streak, or a one-time short-term situation, then:
- Grasp the strength of humanity – the brain, and remind yourself that this too shall pass, difficult situations are solved, but life is one and health is one. Therefore, it is important to take care of yourself, whatever stress may come your way.
- Continue to measure glucose levels, visit your doctor regularly, and do all the necessary daily routines.
- Eat well. Some people tend to eat more during times of difficulty, calmed down by food, others stop eating at all. Both can adversely affect your health. Overeating leads to an increase in blood glucose levels, malnutrition leads to a fall.
- Think positively. The wisdom of King Solomon for all time: “Everything will pass. And that too will pass.” Human abilities and possibilities are truly endless. Remind yourself of this. Consciously change your negative thoughts to positive or at least neutral ones.
- Learn relaxation techniques. Yoga, breathing practices, meditation, muscle relaxation, massage. Choose what suits you.
- Get support. Perhaps you have taken too much upon yourself and the time has come to give part of the responsibility to your family, friends or colleagues.
- Consult a psychologist for advice.