Diabetes is a long-term health condition that, without careful management, can result in dangerously high blood sugar levels. Those dealing with this disease may be familiar with the 'dawn phenomenon', a term used to describe elevated blood glucose levels typically experienced between 4am and 8am.
The exact cause of this phenomenon remains unclear, according to the Mayo Clinic. This condition is also known as hyperglycaemia.
Some researchers believe the overnight release of certain hormones that happens naturally increases insulin resistance, causing the blood sugar to rise. There could be a number of reasons why someone may have high blood sugar levels in the morning, including not getting enough insulin the night before; not getting the right dose of diabetes medicine the night before; or eating a snack with carbohydrates in it at bedtime.
Some symptoms of the 'dawn phenomenon' could include increased thirst, increased hunger, frequent need to wee, headaches, irritability, and blurred vision. The NHS advised speaking to you care team or GP if you've tried to lower your blood sugar but your blood sugar level is still high or you still have symptoms, or you have symptoms of high blood sugar and you have not been diagnosed with diabetes.
However, Dr Sunni Patel from Dish Dash Deets has offered his top five breakfast suggestions to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
1. High-fibre foods
High-fibre foods are crucial as they aren't digested and therefore won't cause a sudden increase in your blood sugar levels, reports Surrey Live.
"This helps prevent rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels," explains Dr Patel. He recommends including whole grains such as oats, whole wheat bread, bran cereal, as well as fruits, vegetables, and nuts in your diet for their fibre content.
2. Protein-rich foods
According to the Express, protein-rich foods also play a vital role in stabilising blood sugar. They slow down the impact of carbohydrates and glucose absorption due to the longer digestion time required for protein.
"It also stimulates the release of hormones that promote satiety, which can prevent overeating and help regulate blood sugar levels," said Dr Patel.
He suggests incorporating foods like eggs, Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese and lean meats into your breakfast routine.
3. Healthy fats
Incorporating healthy fats into your morning meal can aid in slowing digestion and moderating the release of sugar into your blood. These fats, similar to protein, contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially warding off the urge to eat excessively.
Dr Patel suggests adding options such as avocados, nuts and olive oil for those looking to improve their breakfast with healthy fats.
4. Non-starchy vegetables
Non-starchy vegetables come highly recommended due to their nutritional value and high fibre content. Vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes not only offer a range of vital nutrients, but they are also low in carbs and calories.
"Additionally, their low-calorie nature can assist in weight management, which is important for overall blood sugar control," Dr Patel explained.
5. Low-glycaemic fruits
You can also choose fruits with lower positions on the glycaemic index, like berries, apples, pears, and citrus fruits, is beneficial for blood sugar levels. They release sugars more gradually into the bloodstream, preventing the sharp spikes that can occur with high-glycaemic foods, according to Dr Patel.
The NHS advised calling care team immediately or get help from NHS 111 if you think you have high blood sugar and you're feeling sick, being sick or have stomach pain; you're breathing more quickly than usual or your heart is beating faster than usual; you feel drowsy or are struggling to stay awake; your breath has a fruity smell (like pear drop sweets); you feel confused or have difficulty concentrating; or you have a high level of ketones in your blood or pee.
