Why does blood sugar increase after exercise?
Apr 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
If blood glucose levels rise after exercise due to the breakdown of liver glycogen into glucose entering the bloodstream during physical activity, or from consuming large amounts of high-sugar foods before exercise, avoid eating sugary foods prior to exercising. If the elevation is caused by hypoglycemia, it is recommended to promptly consume high-sugar foods after exercise, or receive intravenous glucose solution as directed by a physician. If the cause is diabetes, medications such as gliclazide tablets or glyburide tablets may be used.
Blood glucose elevation after exercise may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as hypoglycemia or diabetes. Appropriate management can be selected based on the specific cause. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
If increased blood circulation due to exercise causes liver glycogen to break down into glucose and enter the bloodstream, or if high-sugar foods such as ice cream and cream cakes were consumed before exercise, blood glucose levels may rise. It is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle, consume moderate amounts of vitamin-rich foods such as grapefruit and apples, and avoid eating sugary foods before exercising.
2. Pathological Factors
1) Hypoglycemia
If excessive exercise intensity or prolonged exercise duration leads to significant energy consumption and results in hypoglycemia, the body may respond by secreting large amounts of hormones that raise blood glucose, causing reactive hyperglycemia. It is recommended to drink sugary water or consume high-carbohydrate snacks such as biscuits or bread immediately after exercise. If necessary, intravenous glucose solution may be administered under medical guidance.
2) Diabetes
In individuals with diabetes, pre-existing high blood glucose levels may worsen during exercise due to increased pancreatic strain and exacerbated insulin deficiency, impairing cells' ability to utilize blood sugar for energy. In such cases, treatment under medical supervision with sulfonylurea drugs such as gliclazide tablets, glyburide tablets, or gliclazide modified-release tablets may be prescribed to help control the condition.
In addition, chronic kidney disease could also be a contributing factor. It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment as directed by a physician.
