In a revealing social media post, Dr Amir Khan, the television doctor known for his ITV appearances, has identified five surprising factors that can cause blood sugar spikes, none of which involve food consumption. He emphasised that while these spikes can be concerning, they are not always detrimental to health, depending on the context.
Understanding Blood Sugar Dynamics
Blood sugar, or glucose, serves as the body's primary energy source, typically derived from food and regulated by the hormone insulin. Imbalances, whether too high or too low, can pose significant health risks. While dietary choices like refined carbohydrates and sugary foods are well-known culprits for glucose surges, Dr Khan points out that other, less obvious triggers exist.
The Five Non-Food Factors
In an Instagram video, Dr Khan posed a thought-provoking question: "Did you know your blood sugar can spike even if you haven't had a single bite to eat?" He then detailed the following factors, explaining their mechanisms and implications.
- Stress: Dr Khan explained that stress triggers the release of cortisol, the fight-or-flight hormone, which signals the liver to release stored glucose for energy. "Great if you're running from a tiger, less helpful if you're just stuck in traffic," he remarked. Chronic stress leads to persistent glucose spikes, which can harm long-term health.
- Poor Sleep: Insufficient sleep can increase insulin resistance, causing glucose to remain in the bloodstream longer. Dr Khan warned that over time, this elevates the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Exercise: Intense or resistance training may temporarily raise blood sugar as the body releases glucose for fuel. However, Dr Khan noted this is "not a bad spike" because regular exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, ultimately lowering overall blood sugar levels.
- Infections or Illness: When fighting off infections, the immune system requires extra energy, leading to a glucose surge. Dr Khan mentioned that individuals with diabetes often observe higher readings during illness, which is normal and may necessitate medication adjustments.
- Hormones: Targeting women specifically, Dr Khan highlighted hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle's luteal phase, where rising progesterone increases insulin resistance. Similarly, declining oestrogen levels in perimenopause and menopause reduce insulin sensitivity, causing more frequent blood sugar spikes, potentially linked to symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and brain fog.
Context and Medical Advice
Dr Khan stressed that not all blood sugar spikes are harmful, underscoring the importance of context. He advised, "If you're seeing high readings and you're not sure why, it's always worth talking to your doctor and not always about what you're eating. Knowledge is power." For concerns about blood sugar levels, consulting a GP is recommended to ensure proper management and understanding.
