Producer: Mehak Pal Editor: Mohit Bisht

Why Does The Blood Sugar Level Rise In Winter?

People with diabetes may even notice blood sugar spikes during colder months. Here are some reasons why blood sugar levels may increase when the temperature drops.

Reduced activity

People most spend time indoors and avoid outdoor activities during cold weather. This decreased physical activity leads to a lower demand for glucose, which can cause blood sugar levels to increase.

Hormonal changes

Cold weather releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which have a counter-regulatory effect on insulin. They can reduce the body’s ability to absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

Increased calorie intake

During winter, people crave comfort foods that are high in carbohydrates which can cause blood sugar spikes.

Illness

Winter is the season for colds, flu, and other illnesses. The release of inflammatory hormones when you are sick can interfere with insulin production and glucose uptake. This can make it more difficult to manage blood sugar levels.