Abstract:<br />Sleep is a vital factor for maintaining overall health, especially for individuals with diabetes. Research indicates that sleep deprivation and staying up late negatively affect blood sugar regulation and increase insulin resistance. This exacerbates symptoms of diabetes and reduces quality of life. This article aims to review the impact of sleep deprivation on diabetes management, highlighting the mechanisms involved and offering key medical recommendations.<br /><br />Introduction:<br />Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes glucose. While much attention is given to diet, physical activity, and medication in managing the disease, sleep is often an overlooked but critical component. Recent studies show a strong correlation between sleep disturbances—such as sleep deprivation—and poor blood sugar control, particularly in patients with type 2 diabetes.<br /><br />Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Hormonal and Metabolic Systems:<br /> 1. Increased Insulin Resistance:<br /> • Staying up late reduces cellular sensitivity to insulin, causing higher blood glucose levels.<br /> 2. Elevated Cortisol Levels:<br /> • Sleep deprivation increases the secretion of cortisol (the stress hormone), which raises blood sugar.<br /> 3. Disruption of Hunger-Regulating Hormones:<br /> • Inadequate sleep increases ghrelin (which stimulates appetite) and decreases leptin (which promotes satiety), leading to overeating and weight gain.<br /><br />Supporting Scientific Studies:<br /> • A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that individuals sleeping fewer than 6 hours per night had 25% higher insulin resistance compared to those sleeping 7–8 hours.<br /> • Another study in Diabetes Care revealed that frequent sleep deprivation is associated with higher HbA1c levels, a key marker of blood sugar control.<br /><br />Medical Recommendations for Diabetes Patients:<br /> 1. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.<br /> 2. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.<br /> 3. Avoid caffeine and stimulants several hours before bedtime.<br /> 4. Reduce screen time before sleeping.<br /> 5. Seek medical advice if suffering from chronic sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia or sleep apnea).<br /><br />Conclusion:<br />Sleep deprivation not only affects mental alertness and energy but also has significant biological impacts that directly interfere with diabetes management. Therefore, improving sleep quality should be an essential part of a diabetes treatment plan, alongside proper nutrition, medication, and physical activity.<br /><br /><br /><br />"AL_mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq"<br/><br/><a href=https://uomus.edu.iq/Default.aspx target=_blank>al-mustaqbal University Website</a>