The study published in Diabetes Care used a statistical technique called Mendelian Randomization to see how five sleep measures – insomnia, daytime sleepiness, sleep duration, napping, and morning or evening preference – were related to blood sugar levels. This was monitored using a measure called HbA1c levels. The Mendelian Randomization was used to group people according to a genetic code randomly assigned at birth, allowing researchers to remove any bias from the results.
Out of the 336,999 adults included in the study, people who reported they often had difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep had higher blood sugar levels than people who said they never, rarely, or only sometimes had these difficulties. There was no other clear link between other sleep traits and blood sugar levels.
The study’s corresponding author explained, “We estimated that an effective insomnia treatment could result in more glucose lowering than an equivalent intervention, which reduces body weight by 14kg in a person of average height. This means around 27,300 UK adults, aged between 40- and 70-years old, with frequent insomnia symptoms, would be free from having diabetes if their insomnia was treated.”
This new study offers an important insight into the relationship between sleep loss and type 2 diabetes. It suggests that insufficient sleep can cause higher blood sugar levels, which could play a direct role in the development of diabetes.
There are some treatments for insomnia, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT). Prescription medications may also be available for patients along with a hormone called melatonin if CBT does not work.
Managing Sleep and Blood Sugar
Lifestyle can also play an essential role in the management of insomnia. Getting plenty of exercise and ensuring proper vitamin and nutrient intake can go a long way to helping ensure a good night’s sleep. Sleep Sure Plus is designed to help promote optimal sleep and restfulness. With a variety of ingredients, including melatonin and valerian, this unique formula offers well-rounded support for a restful night’s sleep.
Healthy Blood Sugar Support is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or support blood sugar levels. This formula has been shown in clinical trials to help support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
By using various ingredients, Healthy Blood Sugar Support provides comprehensive support for overall health, including supporting blood-sugar metabolism, maintaining healthy blood sugar balance, promoting healthy cholesterol and glucose levels already within the normal range, and helping to reduce excessive hunger or increased appetite.