Researchers explain how blood sugar levels can increase risk of sleep disturbances

A cranky mood or craving for something sweet are some signs of unhealthy blood sugar levels. Now, a new study has found a strong link between sleep and blood sugar. This is the first study to discover an association between sleep disruption and type 2 diabetes, which is a condition caused by high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.

Researchers discovered sleep-related symptoms were significantly higher in women who reach menopause and have type 2 diabetes. The team speculate hormones may be the root cause of this connection. Previous research found women who experience menopause have a higher chance of developing diabetes because insulin is affected by sex hormones.

Some studies also suggest sleep has a connection to hormones like estrogen and progesterone. That is why the team is not surprised to find that women in menopause may have a hard time going to sleep. "This study suggests worse sleep-related symptoms in postmenopausal Asian women with type 2 diabetes compared with those without diabetes," Stephanie Faubion, a medical director of the North American Medical Society, told a news portal.

While it is normal for hormonal changes to occur when women experience menopause, the fact that it may cause sleep disruption is cause for concern.Researchers want to further investigate this link between blood sugar and sleep in order to treat the issue. "Sleep is an important determinant of health, and women with poor sleep should be seen and evaluated for common and treatable sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome," Faubion told a news portal. Adding, "Further study is needed, given the limitations of the analysis, but this report highlights the fact that sleep problems are common in midlife women. Sleep is an important determinant of health, and women with poor sleep should be seen and evaluated for common and treatable sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome."

Researchers urge people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes to make lifestyle changes and consult with a doctor to manage their blood sugar levels. Promoting general hormone health can also make the experience of menopause easier. Some experts suggest taking herbs and supplements for those in the perimenopausal stage.

The findings were originally published in the journal Menopause.