Stress promotes diabetes

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Extract from the article: Stress is not one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes. However, studies have shown that it can contribute to the development of the disease in the long term.

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Stress is not one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes. However, studies have shown that it can contribute to the development of the disease in the long term.

While physical inactivity and a poor diet are the main causes of diabetes, it is also linked to lifestyle quality. Stress is therefore also a factor.

Why does stress encourage diabetes?

« Physiologically, stress triggers the release of certain hormones: adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that have an impact on the metabolism of sugars and fats and therefore on the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. These are so-called 'counter-regulation' hormones, normally responsible for raising blood sugar levels in the event of hypoglycaemia. These hormones are also known to be released more by the body in stressful situations », stresses Dr Abdou Razak Moukaila, internist and diabetes specialist, Hôpital Sainte Joséphine Bakhita (Lomé).

Most people have good control over this phenomenon, but in people who have a genetic predisposition to diabetes and who are subject to chronic stress, there is a greater and more persistent rise in blood sugar levels, which can lead to exhaustion of the body's control capacity.

Dr Abdou Razak Moukaila, Internist and Diabetologist, explains that « when adrenaline is secreted, it encourages the release of sugar by the storage organs (liver, muscle) and blood sugar levels rise so that the body has more energy available. Cortisol can affect sugar metabolism. It increases the production of sugars by the liver and encourages hyperglycaemia, or even hyperinsulinism, which can lead to diabetes ».

In addition, chronic stress and depression are often associated with a reduction in physical activity and an increase in food intake. Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to weight gain and encourage the onset of diabetes.

Managing stress

Everyone reacts differently to stress and needs to find ways of managing it that suit them personally. Here are a few examples that can help: setting realistic goals. Taking time out to look after yourself. Use relaxation techniques such as « massage. Sharing your emotions with those around you. Seek help from a professional, such as a psychologist or social worker. Isolating yourself from time to time (retreating to a quiet landscape in contact with nature): this can be beneficial for thinking about what you want to do with your life, without avoiding all contact with others (which can lead to depression). Don't dramatise your condition: this only increases stress levels, just as denying it doesn't help to control it », recommends Dr Abdou Razak Moukaila.

William O.