Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

Q:

How much sleep do people with diabetes need?

A:

Remember, everyone is an individual, and requirements may vary. One study at the University of Chicago did investigate how blood sugars and hormone levels - particularly following a high carbohydrate diet - are affected by less than 8 hours of sleep. In this study, all 11 men ate the same diet. Their sleep pattern was 8 hours for 3 nights, 4 hours the next 6 nights, and 12 hours the last 7 nights. Results were that blood sugar levels took much longer to drop on the sleep-deprived nights; insulin secretion was also lower. Additionally, cortisol hormonal levels were elevated, often a contributor to higher fasting blood sugars and insulin resistance.

Conclusion: A good night’s sleep is important for many reasons. Few of us actually get 8 hours of sleep. Are you affected by this? Try these sleep patterns mentioned here and test for yourself.