Getting insufficient sleep at night has a negative effect on all aspects of your life. Your health is also at risk, as sleep helps the body to replenish its energy supplies. But recent studies also show a strong link between type 2 diabetes and lack of sleep. Coupled together, they can result in a number of health issues.
According to one such study, women are more at risk than men. This study aimed to establish a connection between type 2 diabetes and lack of sleep. Moreover, the researchers wanted to see if poor sleep plays a role in the occurrence of any related symptoms.
How Lack of Sleep Worsens Your Symptoms
The findings show that sleep deprivation increases your blood sugar levels. It is also known to cause neuropathic pain and a strong sense of fatigue, which can disrupt your everyday life. What’s more, age, stress, and depression don’t seem to play any part in this process.
Another thing the researchers noted is the vicious circle that type 2 diabetes and lack of sleep form. Neuropathy and heightened blood sugar levels make it difficult for people to get a good night’s sleep. As such, treating both issues at once can prove difficult.
What You Should Do
If you have type 2 diabetes and suffer from insomnia, you need to talk to your doctor. The first thing they’ll do is address your sleep issues. At the same time, they will prescribe you something to alleviate the symptoms you’re experiencing.
As a rule, people need eight hours of sleep each night. Of course, this will depend on how much rest your body needs. Try to introduce some bedtime rituals that will help you go to sleep at night. Read a book, take a bath, or meditate for a few minutes. As soon as you start getting enough sleep, your symptoms will go away.
References
Poor sleeping habits in adults with type 2 diabetes linked to health problems. URL link. Accessed 11th November 2017.
