What Diabetes Is and How It Can Be Prevented


Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by persistently high blood glucose levels. More than 500 million people live with this condition worldwide, according to international estimates, making it one of today’s leading health challenges.


Glucose serves as a source of energy for cells. To enter them, it needs the help of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. When the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly, sugar remains in the bloodstream.


There are two main types. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces very little insulin or stops producing it altogether. There is currently no proven way to prevent it. In type 2 diabetes, the body develops insulin resistance or does not produce the amount it needs. It is the most common form and, in many cases, it can progress without clear symptoms in its early stages.


Although not all risk factors can be changed, maintaining a healthy weight, moving regularly, avoiding tobacco, and prioritizing a diet rich in vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and adequate protein can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. It is also advisable to limit sugary drinks and ultra-processed products. To better understand their impact, you can read about the effects of added sugar on the body.


Why Blood Sugar Changes During the Night


One of the situations that most worries people who use insulin or certain medications is glucose variation while they sleep. It can rise, but it can also drop too low without the person noticing.


According to Dr. Atilio Castillo Ruiz, an Internal Medicine specialist and president of the Paraguayan Society of Diabetology, asymptomatic nighttime hypoglycemia can lead to seizures. Some possible signs include nightmares, sweating, trembling, restless sleep, headache upon waking, unusual fatigue, or confusion.


Hypoglycemia is generally considered to be a reading below 70 mg/dl. A drop below 55 mg/dl requires special attention. Severe or repeated episodes can affect the nervous system and increase cardiovascular risk, so they should not be normalized.


Symptoms and readings may vary depending on each person and their treatment. Therefore, if you wake up feeling unwell, have low nighttime readings, or someone notices unusual movements while you sleep, speak with your medical team. Do not adjust your medication on your own.


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How to Prevent Nighttime Hypoglycemia


Prevention begins by identifying what is causing the drops. A high insulin dose, an insufficient dinner, alcohol consumption, a change in schedules, or an intense exercise session can alter glucose levels for several hours.


These measures may help you, always adapted to your doctor’s recommendations:



  • Check your glucose before going to sleep if it is part of your monitoring plan.

  • Follow the schedules and amounts prescribed for insulin or medications.

  • Do not skip dinner after using rapid-acting insulin.

  • Avoid changing doses or adding snacks without consulting a healthcare professional.

  • Keep a record of episodes, food, exercise, and symptoms to identify patterns.

  • Tell the people you live with how to act in an emergency.


Intense physical activity at night can contribute to a delayed drop in glucose, especially for those who use insulin. This does not mean you should give up exercise. It may be enough to change the time of day, reduce the intensity, or monitor your glucose more closely. You can also learn about these low-impact physical exercises.


Continuous glucose monitoring devices can be useful for some people because they show trends and issue alerts. However, their use and settings should be reviewed with the healthcare team.


What to Do When Blood Sugar Drops


If the person is conscious and able to swallow, a fast-acting source of glucose is usually used according to the plan provided by their healthcare professional. The level is then checked again to make sure it has recovered.


If they are unconscious, having a seizure, or unable to swallow, do not give them food or drink by mouth, as they could choke. Seek emergency assistance. Glucagon, when it has been prescribed and those nearby know how to administer it, may be used in certain cases. Intravenous glucose should be administered by healthcare professionals.


Medical Checkups for Living Better with Diabetes


Diabetes education is an essential part of treatment. Knowing your readings, recognizing symptoms, and understanding how to act can give you confidence without turning daily care into a constant source of fear.


Maintain regular glucose checks and attend the recommended appointments to monitor blood pressure, kidneys, vision, feet, and cardiovascular health. Taking care of your rest is also important, because poor sleep can make metabolic regulation more difficult. If this concerns you, this article on how sleeping well protects your health may offer guidance.


Diabetes can be managed, and it does not have to prevent you from enjoying an active, fulfilling life. The key is to pay attention to your body, maintain realistic habits, and work alongside professionals to tailor treatment to your needs.