Winter is an exciting time of the year as this festive season brings much joy and happiness. However, if you have diabetes,you may not find it thrilling. Diabetes is a chronic health condition due to increased glucose (sugar) levels. During the winter season, your blood sugar levels may rise as the temperature drops since you tend to exercise less and eat more.
To understand this concept better, let’s see how cold weather impacts blood sugar levels and learn some effective tips to manage it.
High blood sugar levels in your body can present with the following signs and symptoms:
Several factors that cause the blood sugar levels to rise in winter are:
1. Minimal Physical Activity: Cold weather can limit outdoor activities, which can reduce your physical activity. Compromised activity levels can cause insulin resistance and raise blood sugar levels.
2. Unhealthy Eating Habits: Winter is considered a festive season, leading to overeating and excessive sugar consumption. Unhealthy processed, fried, and sugary foods can raise blood sugar levels.
3. Weight Changes: A sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits contribute to insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels.
4. Vitamin D Deficiency: Limited exposure to sunlight during winter can decrease vitamin D levels, leading to insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels.
5. Risk Of Infections: Winter brings with it an increased risk of cold and flu. Infections may cause stress, making the body release cortisol (stress hormone). This impacts the insulin production, raising blood sugar levels.
6. Dehydration: Your thirst sensation may reduce during winter, making you drink less water. This leads to dehydration, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.
Cold weather during winter can negatively impact your blood sugar levels. But fret not! There is good news- here are some practical tips that can help you manage high blood sugar levels during winter:
1. Opt For Healthy Foods: Be mindful of what you eat. Opt for healthy foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains to boost immunity. Avoid junk, processed, and sugary foods. Opt for amla, a popular diabetic-friendly food rich in vitamin C to control blood sugar levels.
2. Stay Hydrated: Try to set a goal of drinking at least 6 to 8 glasses of water daily. It is beneficial to add fenugreek to the water and drink it early in the morning on an empty stomach. Limit tea and coffee, and use herbal drinks to stabilise your body’s electrolyte needs.
3. Stay Warm: Keep yourself warm during the cold weather to optimise elevated blood sugar levels.
4. Practise Good Personal Hygiene: Cold weather is often accompanied by dry air that can cause dry skin, itchiness, and cracks. This can pave the way for germ infiltration, causing infection. Pay close attention to your skin and keep it well moisturised.
5. Add Indoor Activities: Stay active by indulging in indoor activities like aerobics or Zumba. This can help manage excess weight and insulin sensitivity.
6. Manage Stress: Manage stress through relaxation techniques like Yoga, meditation, following a hobby, or even reading a book.
7. Have A Backup Kit: A diabetes care kit can help you manage diabetes in times of emergency when blood sugar levels may suddenly shoot.
8. Get Your Flu Shots: Make sure you are vaccinated against flu and influenza to keep yourself safe and protected.
9. Take Vitamin D Supplements: Since winters are deprived of sunlight, you can fuel your body with vitamin D supplements.
Maintaining control of your blood sugar levels is essential for overall health and well-being. However, winters can negatively impact blood sugar levels and increase them due to a decrease in temperature. However, by adopting a proactive approach, you can still enjoy the winter season while maintaining optimal blood sugar levels. By following the above tips, you can easily control high blood sugar levels during winter. Your health should be your top priority, irrespective of the season, and with extra care and support, you can conquer the winter hurdles and maintain your blood sugar levels.
If the symptoms of high blood sugar are bothering you and impacting your quality of life, contact Ashraya Hospital. Located in the heart of Pune, this multi-specialty hospital’s expert panel of healthcare professionals offers a comprehensive approach to all your needs. Call us and schedule your appointment today!
