Feeling More Tired and Sleepy in October? Here’s the Surprising Reason Why.
October is the month of cooler evenings, festivals and shorter days. While we enjoy the season, less exposure to natural light can have an impact on sleep and blood sugar levels. For people with diabetes, even a mild seasonal change can have a greater impact on their health.
The Connection Between Light, Sleep, and Blood Sugar
Our bodies run on a natural rhythm known as the circadian clock, which is strongly influenced by daylight. Shorter days in October may disrupt this rhythm. Quality of sleep and hormone regulation are affected because of this. Poor sleep has been linked with higher insulin resistance. This can make it harder for the body to control blood sugar.
Effects of Shorter Days in October
- Reduced Melatonin Regulation: Less daylight affects melatonin production, leading to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Poor sleep directly impacts glucose metabolism.
- Changes in Eating Patterns: People often feel like eating late-night snacks. This can cause blood sugar spikes.
- Mood and Energy Shifts: Shorter days may cause fatigue, irritability, or even mild seasonal depression, which can affect motivation to stay active or eat balanced meals.
- Less Outdoor Activity: As the sun sets early, people stop or reduce evening walking or exercise. This has a bad effect on the blood sugar levels.
Tips to Maintain Balance
- Prioritise Sleep Hygiene: Go to bed and wake up at consistent times, even on holidays or weekends. Avoid mobile phones or TV screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
- Maximise Daylight Exposure: Spend time outdoors in the morning or afternoon to reset your body’s natural rhythm.
- Stay Active Indoors: If you are not able to walk outdoors, try yoga, stretching or light home workouts in the evening.
- Mindful Eating: Plan early dinners and avoid high-sugar snacks at night. Warm soups, nuts, or fruit make better options.
- Track Blood Sugar Closely: Seasonal changes may alter glucose patterns. Check the sugars more frequently in October to look for the impact.
A Season of Awareness
Shorter days in autumn seem like a small change, and we often ignore them. But they can significantly influence sleep and blood sugar regulation. With mindful habits, people with diabetes can adapt smartly to the October season.
Takeaway
October is a reminder that even nature’s rhythms have an effect on our sleep patterns. By balancing sleep, diet and activity, people with diabetes can enjoy the charm of this season while keeping their blood sugar under control.
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