|  | Conditions Treatments | Diabetes

Blood Glucose Levels During Dehydration

Dehydration takes its toll on the human body in some apparent ways--thirst, fatigue, nausea. In diabetics, however, dehydration can lead to a spiraling set of symptoms that set off a continuum of causes and effects.

  1. Blood Glucose

    • When a person with diabetes becomes dehydrated, the blood glucose level rises. In response, the body dumps glucose into the urine, causing more frequent urination. (Sweating may also increase.)

    Dehydration's Role in Blood Sugar Levels

    • Dehydration can lead to an insulin resistance known as "transitory insulin resistance." As blood sugar levels rise, insulin resistance results. As the kidneys work to rid the body of glucose and ketones, the body becomes further dehydrated, and blood sugar levels continue to climb. Breaking the cycle requires increased fluid intake. The general rule is one-third ounce of water or clear non-caloric fluid per kilogram of body weight per hour. This helps the body "catch up" with the elimination of needed fluids.

    Treat Dehydration Before It Happens

    • During warm weather or while exercising, blood sugar may naturally rise. Increase fluid intake with either water or non-caloric, non-carb drinks to ward off a blood sugar spike.

    Dehydration as a Symptom of Something Else

    • Dehydration in diabetics can be a symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition in which a high level of ketones is present. In addition to dehydration and high ketone levels, other DKA symptoms include nausea, lack of appetite, weakness, extreme thirst, blood sugar level of 240 or higher, frequent urination and difficulty breathing. In cases where DKA is suspected, contact your physician immediately.

    Bottom Line

    • Before exercising, drink at least 16 ounces of water or non-carb, non-caloric fluid. If you drank coffee or another caffeinated beverage, counter the dehydrating effects of the caffeine with increased fluid intake. While exercising, don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. According to the American Diabetes Association, a rule of thumb is to take in 28 ounces of water or sports drink every hour that you are exercising.

Diabetes - Related Articles