Why Sleep Affects Your Numbers
You ate perfectly yesterday, but woke up with high fasting sugar. Why? The answer often lies in your sleep quality. Sleep deprivation puts your body in a state of stress.
The Cortisol Spike
When you're tired, your body releases cortisol, the stress hormone. Cortisol signals your liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream for "energy" to handle the stress. This happens even if you haven't eaten anything!
Improving Sleep for Better Hba1c
- Cool Down: Keep your bedroom cool (around 20-22°C if possible).
- Darkness: Use blackout curtains vs eye masks. Melatonin (sleep hormone) needs darkness.
- No Screens: Blue light suppresses melatonin. Try reading a physical book 30 mins before bed.
- Magnesium: Consult your doctor about magnesium supplements, which can help relax muscles and improve sleep depth.
Key Nutrients & Ingredients
Magnesium
Promotes deep sleep
Melatonin
Regulates sleep cycle
Tryptophan
Precursor to sleep hormones