Imagine sleep as the body’s nightly orchestra, conducting vital processes that repair tissues, build muscles, and optimise metabolic functions. For those who have to navigate the complexities of diabetes, these nocturnal processes are even more critical, especially when it comes to regulating blood sugar levels.

During sleep, the body releases growth hormones that help regulate glucose metabolism. Adequate sleep is crucial to improving insulin sensitivity, which makes it easier for the body to use this pancreatic hormone effectively.

Conversely, poor sleep patterns, such as insufficient or disrupted rest, could lead to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type-2 diabetes.

Another outcome of sleep deprivation is an increase in the hormones ghrelin and leptin, which regulate appetite and hunger. This imbalance could lead to higher calorie intake during the day.

Coupled with poor sleep patterns, this could, in turn, result in fatigue and lower energy levels. Consequently, the patient might find it hard to get enough physical activity and exercise, which are essential for managing diabetes.

Various interventions are being explored to improve sleep quality in those with diabetes, including cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-i), lifestyle modifications and, in some cases, drugs.

With CBT-i, a trained provider helps the patient identify thoughts, feelings and behaviours that make their sleep problems worse, and replace them with habits that can support sound rest. The goal is to address both the quantity and quality of sleep to positively impact metabolic health and diabetes management.

While most of us are aware that insufficient sleep can lead to sluggishness and irritability, having too much sleep, too, may be detrimental in many ways.

Studies have shown an association between extremes of sleep duration (too much or too little) and an increased risk of developing diabetes, with an optimal sleep duration being in the range of seven to nine hours a night.

Indeed, too little or too much sleep could disrupt metabolic processes, potentially contributing to insulin resistance and an elevated risk of diabetes. As such, achieving a balanced and regular sleep pattern is essential for overall health and diabetes prevention.

If a person still feels tired and sleepy after seven to nine hours of sleep, it could indicate underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. A sleep study or sleep test is therefore recommended to rule out other possible disorders.

This article was written by Shaun Lee, pharmacist and professor at Monash University Malaysia’s school of pharmacy, for 360info.