The connection between stress and prediabetes often goes unnoticed, but it's a crucial factor to understand for anyone concerned with their health. While we all undergo stress in our lives, chronic or long-term stress can impact our bodies in negative ways, including increasing the risk of prediabetes. Recognising this connection is the first step to effectively manage stress and prediabetes.

The Stress-Prediabetes Link

Emerging evidence suggests that perceived stress can lead to higher HbA1c levels in individuals with prediabetes, indicating a poorer control of blood glucose levels. Stress can also nudge a person towards unhealthful lifestyle habits such as poor diet, low exercise levels, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use, which can increase the risk of developing diabetes.

Hormonal Changes Due to Stress

High levels of stress can stir up hormonal changes in our bodies, specifically by activating the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. This leads to an increase in cortisol levels and a decrease in sex hormones, which in turn can disrupt insulin function. This hormonal imbalance can lead to insulin resistance - a significant risk factor for diabetes.

Strategies for Stress Management

Stress management can be pivotal in preventing prediabetes from advancing to diabetes. Stress releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise. Techniques such as exercise, meditation, mindfulness, and seeking social support can help reduce stress and improve glycaemic control. If these strategies seem ineffective, seeking professional help becomes essential.

Learning about the role of stress in prediabetes can help with its prevention. Stress can lead to unhealthy habits which can exacerbate prediabetes. Therefore, implementing effective stress management strategies like exercise, meditation, and social support can help alleviate this condition.