I deal with stress by listening to my favorite music🎶🎵. It is good for the mind. It really relaxes me
September 27
Personally I cut my net carbs to deal with higher blood glucose numbers.
September 26 (edited)
How should you manage stress spikes with diabetes?
Stress can raise cortisol levels, which in turn can spike blood sugar — so managing stress is genuinely part of managing diabetes. The good news is there are plenty of strategies that can help, and many of them have a "double benefit" for both your mood and your numbers.
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How should you manage stress spikes with diabetes?
Stress can raise cortisol levels, which in turn can spike blood sugar — so managing stress is genuinely part of managing diabetes. The good news is there are plenty of strategies that can help, and many of them have a "double benefit" for both your mood and your numbers.
Here are some approaches that have worked for others:
- Move your body — Even a short walk can lower both stress and blood sugar at the same time
- Try breathing or meditation — A few minutes of deep breathing or mindfulness can interrupt the stress-blood sugar spiral
- Pick up a hobby — Drawing, knitting, coloring, or any hands-busy activity gives your brain a healthy distraction
- Listen to music — A go-to playlist can calm you down or energize you, especially paired with a walk
- Prioritize sleep — Aim for at least 7 hours, since poor sleep raises cortisol and can worsen blood sugar control
- Set boundaries — Avoid overcommitting and don't be afraid to ask others to respect your need for space
- Reframe your mindset — As one DiabetesTeam member put it, *"Stress knocks me off track, but I get back on my horse and hopefully ride into the beautiful sunset."*
- Lean on faith or spirituality — If that's part of your life, even a short quiet moment can help ground you
If stress feels unmanageable or is consistently affecting your sleep, eating, or blood sugar readings, it's worth bringing up with your healthcare provider. You deserve support!
September 26
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