The Hidden Risk: How Prednisone Triggers High Blood Sugar Levels

Prednisone, a widely prescribed corticosteroid medication, is often used to treat various inflammatory conditions. While it provides relief from symptoms, prednisone can have an unforeseen consequence – elevated blood sugar levels.

High doses of prednisone can cause fluctuations in blood sugar due to its impact on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Studies show that even short-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone can lead to a significant increase in fasting blood glucose levels (1). This is particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

Managing Blood Sugar Spikes: Understanding Prednisone's Effect

When prednisone enters the body, it triggers an array of physiological responses aimed at reducing inflammation. However, does anxiety cause high blood sugar one unintended consequence is a surge in glucose production by the liver and increased insulin resistance (2). As a result, blood sugar levels can rise significantly.

Monitoring your blood sugar regularly while taking prednisone is crucial to mitigate this risk. You can do so using home glucometers or continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) for more accurate readings. Regular checks will help you adjust your treatment plan and diet accordingly.

Fighting the Fluctuations: Diet, Exercise, and Lifestyle Adjustments

While medication plays a significant role in managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, prednisone should be used judiciously to minimize its impact on blood sugar levels. A combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity, and stress management can also help regulate fluctuations.

A diet check blood sugar levels rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels (3). Avoiding processed blood sugar level too low symptoms foods and sugary drinks will reduce your reliance on glucose-rich sources that exacerbate the condition. Additionally, regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity while reducing overall inflammation in the body (4).

The Impact of Stress: How Corticosteroids Like Prednisone Affect Blood Sugar

Stress is a major contributor to fluctuations in blood sugar levels when taking corticosteroids like prednisone. The medication can amplify cortisol's effects, how to decrease blood sugar level which include increased glucose production by the liver and reduced insulin sensitivity (5).

To minimize this risk, consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine, such as yoga or meditation practice. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for regulating blood sugar levels; lack of quality rest has 140 blood sugar level been shown to increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (6).

True Result Blood Glucose Meter Demonstration. Australian community pharmacist Pete Lwin from Blood Sugar Magic demonstrates the True Result blood glucose meter and the True Draw lancet device. This presentation is part of a series on diabetes. 🔵 If you'd like to support us to make more videos like this, please subscribe 🔵 • BLOG: • WEBSITE: More video reviews of diabetes meter reviews and lancets: PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL DIABETES QUERIES PLEASE ASK YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST. *This series of videos is a private independent production. We do not receive sponsorship or payment from any companies for our reviews or views. The information and opinions expressed here are based on a culmination of professional experience, clinical data and professional resources as noted. If you have any queries about the show please contact [email protected]