The dawn phenomenon refers to an abnormal increase in blood sugar levels in people with diabetes during the early morning hours, typically between 2 AM and 8 AM. The exact cause is sometimes unclear.
Some researchers believe it is due to the body's natural release of certain hormones during this time. These hormones include growth hormone, cortisol, glucagon, and adrenaline, which increase insulin resistance (i.e., the body's sensitivity to insulin decreases).
The dawn phenomenon may also have other causes, such as insufficient insulin in the body, incorrect medication dosage, or eating sugary or carbohydrate-rich snacks before bed, all of which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels in the morning.
If necessary, you can check your blood sugar levels around 2 or 3 AM to determine if you have the dawn phenomenon and to help identify the cause of the elevated blood sugar levels. Based on the test results, your doctor may recommend the following measures to prevent or correct it: