Stress, Sleep, and Sugar: RAK Hospital Unveils the Hidden Connections in Diabetes Management
RAK Hospital as part of its RAK Diabetes Challenge 2024 initiative hosted an enlightening session of its Diabeat webinar series, featuring Prof. Adrian Kennedy, Chief Wellness Officer at the hospital. The webinar delved into the critical connection between stress and diabetes, emphasizing the various stressors that can significantly impact blood sugar levels and overall health.
Prof. Kennedy explained that stress can arise from multiple sources—work-related issues, family challenges, financial concerns, emotional turmoil, and even natural calamities such as floods or earthquakes. Regardless of the origin, stress triggers the release of adrenaline, the body’s Fight or Flight hormone. This physiological response can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, which pose significant risks for individuals with diabetes. “For diabetics, managing stress is not just beneficial; it’s essential,” he stated, urging attendees to adopt proactive strategies. He recommended techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and physical activities like yoga and walking to counteract stress and effectively utilize excess blood sugar.
The discussion also highlighted the vital role of sleep in maintaining good health. Prof. Kennedy emphasized that adults should aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep, while children need at least 9 hours. He explained that stress increases brain wave activity, pushing the brain into a beta state during wakefulness, which can hinder healing. In contrast, engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation or ensuring a restful night’s sleep can transition the brain to a calmer alpha and theta state. This state is crucial for the body’s healing processes, allowing the release of endorphins and other rejuvenating hormones. Poor sleep patterns, common among diabetics, can lead to irritability, sluggishness, hypertension, and difficulty managing blood sugar levels. Prof. Kennedy stressed the importance of good sleep hygiene practices, including creating a dark, quiet sleep environment and minimizing screen time before bed.
The webinar further addressed the significant health risks associated with smoking and alcohol consumption. Prof. Kennedy highlighted smoking as a leading cause of cancer globally and noted the adverse effects of excessive alcohol intake. He pointed out that while moderate drinking can be acceptable, diabetics should exercise caution, as alcohol is a refined sugar beverage that can spike blood sugar levels. He advised limiting alcohol intake to no more than 250 ml of beer, 120 ml of red wine, or 60 ml of spirits per day, while recommending protein-rich snacks over potato chips to accompany drinks to minimize blood sugar spikes.
RAK Hospital is dedicated to improving community health through education and awareness initiatives. The Diabeat webinar series serves as a platform to empower individuals with knowledge about diabetes management and promote healthier lifestyle choices.For more information about the RAK Diabetes Challenge 2024, on the Diabeat series and to view past webinars, visit www.rakdiabeteschallenge.com
