Why does sugar increase in cold?Image Credit source: Getty Images
When the temperature drops in winter, the body needs more energy to stay warm. During this time, some hormones are produced in the body which can increase blood sugar. In winter, people mostly stay at home, due to which walking is reduced. The habit of drinking less water is also common in this season, due to which the sugar level can increase further. Besides, the desire for oily, sweet and heavy food also increases in winter. This is the reason why sudden fluctuations in sugar are seen in this season.
In winter, the body increases energy from within to maintain its temperature. Due to this, glucose increases from inside the body, which the liver releases outside, so that the body continues to get heat. In a normal person, this glucose is easily controlled, but in a diabetic patient, insulin is not able to work properly, hence the sugar increases rapidly. Hunger also increases in winter. Paratha, sweets, ghee and fried food are consumed in large quantities. Lack of sunlight can lead to Vitamin D deficiency. Due to this, the effect of insulin in the body reduces and the risk of increasing sugar increases. Sleep routine may also get disturbed. All these things together become the reason for increasing blood sugar in winter.
How to take care of diabetic patients in winter?
Dr. L.H. at Lady Hardinge Hospital. fraudster It is said that in this season it is most important for diabetic patients not to relax in their daily routine. Check blood sugar at least 3 to 5 times a week in the morning on an empty stomach and after a heavy meal. Drink 8 to 9 glasses of water daily. Walking at a light pace for 20 to 30 minutes at home, stretching or yoga is beneficial.
Keep food light and reduce fried foods. Rotis made by mixing barley or millet with wheat flour, pulses, vegetables, soups and seasonal fruits like orange, guava and amla are good options. Do not change the timing of medicine and insulin. Avoid stress in winter, get enough sleep. By maintaining consistent discipline, sugar control becomes easier throughout the season and health remains stable.
Also keep in mind
Sit in the sun for some time in the morning.
You can soak fenugreek seeds overnight and take its water in the morning.
Keep your feet warm by protecting them from cold.
If sugar suddenly increases or decreases, contact the doctor.