by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: November 10, 2009

There is a direct link between diabetes and poor quality and amount of sleep. It appears that the more it is studied the more profound the direct link is expressed. So why is sleep so important and how does it have anything to do with diabetes?

Having little sleep or interrupted sleep effects the amount of oxygen that is absorbed into the blood. Studies indicate that a history of poor blood oxygenation has a role in developing type-2 diabetes. Those people who are over 55 and are heavy snorers have almost twice the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

To help us understand the connection we have to look at the way the body breaks down carbohydrates. After eating the body begins to to break down carbohydrates and glucose is then released into the blood cells. For the cells to get the glucose a hormone, insulin, is released into the bloodstream. This way the body can use the glucose that was broken down from carbohydrates. It can now be used for energy.

Lack of sleep or poor sleep make the blood cells insulin resistant. This simply means the blood cells do not react to in insulin in the correct manner. It can cause too much glucose circulating through the blood stream. In return this causes damage to the blood vessels.

Cell metabolism is another factor that is important in understanding the need for sleep and the link to diabetes. The glucose enters the cell and now it is time for the cell to create energy from the raw product. This is accomplished by a process called aerobic metabolism. When this process is taking place oxygen is pulled from the blood. If there is little oxygen the process is slow and inefficient. Part of the reason that sleep apnea patients have issues is that the sleep isinterrupted and there is a lack of oxygen in the body all night.

Since there is such a strong connection between sleep and diabetes it would seem wise to do everything possible for quality sleep. Here are some suggestions.

*Make a sleep schedule and stick to it
The body responds well to routines. So going to bed at the same time every night and getting up at the same time.

*Remove distractions from the sleeping area
There is no room for television in a bedroom. It is a distraction and sends the wrong message to our senses.

*Clean and clutter free
Things collect dust and dust leads to poor breathing and a general lack of oxygen.

*Eating habits
Try not to eat for two hours before bedtime

*Exercise
Exercise 30 minutes a day at least three hours before bedtime

*Avoid caffeine
Avoid caffeine after noon.

Good sleeping habits lead to a healthier body and less risk of diabetes.

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