Managing diabetes in winter: How does cold weather affect blood sugar levels? Experts share precautionary tips

Diabetes is the leading cause of death across the globe. It is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals in India. While affecting around 77 million people in the country, India is also called the 'diabetes capital' of the world.

Chronic health conditions can lead to other health problems like heart diseases, renal diseases, neuropathy, eye problems, and more if the condition is not managed on time. Moreover, the weather can also affect the rise in blood sugar levels or diabetes. Both the summer and winter seasons affect the blood glucose levels.

Winter can be challenging for those diagnosed with health conditions like diabetes. It can be due to constant coldness in the weather, reduced range of motion, and seasonal changes. ¡°Cold weather can make it extremely difficult to notice the signs that your sugar levels are decreasing. Individuals are advised to take extra care of their health this month to stabilise their blood sugar levels. Stay cautious and always look for any sudden signs of low blood sugar levels,¡± explains Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai.

During winter one can easily feel stressed or under the weather due to the gloominess of the weather. Dr. Agarwal says, ¡°Extreme stress can make your body release stress hormones like cortisol, which can raise your blood sugar levels.¡±

How does cold weather affect diabetes in people?

Dealing with diabetes can be overwhelming for many people in winter hence, it becomes crucial to prioritise your health and take utmost care. Not taking enough care and overlooking it can cause a range of health issues that can take a toll on your overall well-being. According to Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of the Rang De Neela initiative, ¡°Colder weather can affect your body¡¯s insulin response. You can check your blood sugar levels in the comfort of your own home with the help of a glucometer that is easily available in a chemist's shop or on an online website.¡±

Keeping a close check on your blood sugar levels can help catch any unexpected changes that can become problematic if neglected. Lifestyle modifications like taking warm baths, doing deep-breathing exercises, and wearing warm clothes can be helpful.

Tips to manage diabetes in winter

Keep a check on diet: To keep your diabetes in check, ensure that you strictly stick to the diet plan as suggested by your doctor. Drinking foods containing excessive sugar, such as chocolate, cookies, tea, coffee, shakes, and cake, can harm your health.

Eat a well-balanced meal: Focus more on eating well-balanced meals enriched with essential nutrients to help manage your blood sugar levels.

Wear warm clothes: Dress in warm and comfortable fabrics like wool to help you stay cosy amidst the cold weather. Wearing warm layers can help prevent the sudden temperature drop in your body that can affect your blood sugar levels.

Eat food on time: Have meals on time, and you can monitor blood sugar frequently. During winter, people often forget to drink water, leading to dehydration.

Stay hydrated: Ensure that you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, such as water, coconut water, fruit or vegetable juice, green tea, chamomile tea, soups, or broth.

Avoid home remedies: Do not try to treat those symptoms with home remedies or traditional medicines, as it can only delay the treatment and lead to negative outcomes.

See a doctor if needed: If you start to feel any unusual symptoms, do not forget to consult a doctor.