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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Will the Time Change Mess with my Blood Sugar Numbers?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Inverary, ON

Well I am going to let the BOT answer the question since there is lots of good data out there but of course will add my 2 Cents

YES - you "may" see some unstable/abnormal/little higher than usual Fasting Blood Sugars for the next week or so if you are a Type 2

Since Type 2 is a Metabolic Disorder it's is uniquely tied to our "body clocks" (Circadian Rhythm or simply Metabolism) and the time shift kinda messes with the clock

When our Body Clock is out of sync our hormones get a little messed… read more

March 9, 2025 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members warmly discussed whether the time change affects blood sugar levels, with differing perspectives on whether the shift meaningfully... Read more

Members warmly discussed whether the time change affects blood sugar levels, with differing perspectives on whether the shift meaningfully impacts glucose control or is simply a convenient explanation for other factors like diet. Several members shared that their own blood sugar remained stable through time changes, with one crediting years of shift work for adaptability, while others acknowledged broader health effects of time changes including increased risks for heart problems, strokes, accidents, and depressive episodes. A recurring theme was the importance of staying consistent with routines, not overthinking small fluctuations, and recognizing that many factors beyond the clock influence blood sugar management.

DiabetesTeam

Yes, time changes can affect blood sugar readings, particularly during the first week after the shift. When the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) is disrupted, it can lead to temporary changes in blood glucose levels. This happens because stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline may be released at different times Show Full Answer

Yes, time changes can affect blood sugar readings, particularly during the first week after the shift. When the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm) is disrupted, it can lead to temporary changes in blood glucose levels. This happens because stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline may be released at different times than usual, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise. During this adjustment period, it's normal to see slightly higher readings than usual, especially in the morning. The best approach is to continue monitoring blood sugar levels regularly and maintain consistent meal and medication times according to the new schedule. Most people's blood sugar levels will stabilize once their body adjusts to the new time schedule.

March 9, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

The time change affects many health as well as mental health issues. There are
more heart related problems as well as strokes when we change the time. Plus more accidents and depressive episodes. Leave the time alone.
Dr. Jimmers

March 9, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Hi...sorry to say, but I don't see it that way. I just ignore that hour and continue my day.
Have a blessed day 🙏.

March 9, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Time changes have little effect on my numbers. Maybe because I worked shift work so I could take my Mom to dialysis 3x a week.

Right now it is 7 am in Australia and 5 pm in New Jersey.

March 9, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

@ lapintora Totally agree. Poor old diabetes gets blamed for so many things and an hour’s change in time is unlikely to have much of an effect.
However it’s easy to blame it on time change instead of that carb laden meal you had earlier 😊

Also I suspect this excuse is being promoted by those who want to abolish the seasonal time change.

March 9, 2025

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