Can Exercise Raise Blood Sugar Levels? Here’s What You Need to Know


As someone with diabetes or pre-diabetes, you may be wondering if exercise can raise your blood sugar levels. The answer is yes, but it’s not as simple as that. Here’s what you need to know.

First, let’s understand how exercise affects blood sugar levels. When you exercise, your muscles need energy, which they get from glucose (sugar) in your blood. To fuel your muscles, your body releases insulin, which helps glucose enter the cells. This process can cause your blood sugar levels to drop.

However, sometimes exercise can have the opposite effect and cause your blood sugar levels to rise. This can happen in a few different ways:

1. Stress hormones: When you exercise, your body produces stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause your liver to release glucose into your blood, which can raise your blood sugar levels.

2. High-intensity exercise: High-intensity exercise can cause your body to produce glucose even if you don’t have any food in your system. This can cause your blood sugar levels to rise.

3. Timing: If you exercise after a meal, your blood sugar levels may already be elevated. Exercise can cause your body to use up glucose from your blood, but it can also cause your liver to release more glucose, which can raise your blood sugar levels.

So, what can you do to prevent exercise from raising your blood sugar levels? Here are some tips:

1. Monitor your blood sugar levels: Before, during, and after exercise, check your blood sugar levels to see how your body responds. This will help you understand how different types of exercise affect your blood sugar levels.

2. Time your exercise: Try to exercise when your blood sugar levels are stable, such as in the morning before breakfast or two hours after a meal.

3. Choose the right type of exercise: Low to moderate-intensity exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming is less likely to cause your blood sugar levels to rise.

4. Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause your blood sugar levels to rise, so make sure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.

In conclusion, exercise can raise your blood sugar levels, but it’s not a reason to avoid physical activity. With the right precautions, exercise can help you manage your blood sugar levels and improve your overall health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine.

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