Why does blood sugar rise after exercise?
Apr 21, 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 increase is caused by reactive hypoglycemia, it is recommended to promptly consume high-sugar foods after exercise, or receive intravenous glucose solution as directed by a physician. If the condition is caused by diabetes, medications such as gliclazide tablets or glyburide tablets may be used.
Generally, elevated blood glucose after exercise may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions such as hypoglycemia and diabetes. Appropriate management can be selected based on the specific cause. The details are as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
If improved blood circulation due to exercise leads to the breakdown of liver glycogen into glucose that enters the bloodstream, or if high-sugar foods such as ice cream and cream cakes were consumed before exercise—thereby affecting blood glucose levels—it is recommended to maintain a regular lifestyle, eat moderate amounts of vitamin-rich foods such as grapefruit and apples, and avoid consuming sugary foods before exercising.
2. Pathological Factors
1) Hypoglycemia
If excessive exercise intensity or prolonged exercise duration leads to significant energy consumption and causes hypoglycemia, the body may respond by secreting large amounts of hormones that raise blood glucose, resulting in 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 glucose for energy. In such cases, treatment under medical supervision with sulfonylurea drugs such as gliclazide tablets, glyburide tablets, or glipizide extended-release tablets may be prescribed to help control the condition.
In addition, chronic kidney disease could also be a potential cause. It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment as directed by a healthcare provider.
