5 things that can raise blood sugar (and they’re not food)
Published on: Aug. 12, 2025, 11:30 a.m. | Source: The Indian Express
According to Dr. Pranav Ghody, a consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, several surprising factors can cause blood sugar levels to rise even without eating. These include stress, which releases cortisol and prompts the liver to release glucose; poor sleep, which can cause temporary insulin resistance; and intense exercise, which triggers a release of glucose for energy. Additionally, infections can raise blood sugar as the immune system demands extra energy, and hormonal changes—particularly in women during menstrual cycles or menopause—can reduce the body's sensitivity to insulin. Dr. Ghody notes that while temporary spikes from exercise or illness are natural, chronic issues stemming from stress, poor sleep, or persistent hormonal imbalances require attention. He advises that understanding these triggers is key to managing health, and recommends stress management, prioritizing sleep, regular exercise, and consulting a healthcare professional if unusual or persistent blood sugar spikes occur.
