Dietician explains the ‘Dawn Phenomenon’ in diabetics and how to manage it

Many individuals with diabetes observe elevated blood sugar levels in the morning, despite fasting overnight. According to nutritionist and dietitian Shweta Panchal, this spike is frequently driven by a natural biological process known as the ‘Dawn Phenomenon’.

In an Instagram post, Shweta explained that between 2 am and 8 am, the body releases hormones like cortisol and growth hormone. These hormones tell the liver to release stored glucose into the blood to prepare the body for the day.

This happens to everyone, but in people with diabetes, the body cannot use insulin properly to control the extra sugar. As a result, fasting blood sugar levels become high even without eating.

Shweta says a few simple daily habits can help manage this morning sugar spike. She advises eating dinner early, preferably by 7 PM, because late and heavy meals can make the problem worse. After waking up, drink a glass of water before having tea or coffee. She also recommends eating a protein-rich breakfast within 30 minutes of waking up, as it helps keep blood sugar stable.

A 10-minute morning walk can also be helpful because it allows the muscles to use glucose from the blood. Shweta also says people should never skip breakfast, as it can increase stress hormones and raise blood sugar even more.

According to Shweta, managing the Dawn Phenomenon is not always about taking more medicines. Understanding why it happens and following healthy lifestyle habits can help people with diabetes keep their blood sugar under better control.