type 2 diabetes It has emerged as a major health concern, affecting millions of people not only in India but globally. Although it is well known that genetics and lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise play a role, long-term function-related effects Tension There is often an overlooked factor. The never-ending pressure of meeting tight deadlines and working long hours can seriously disrupt our body’s metabolic balance, leading to serious health problems including diabetes. We contacted Dr. Sanjay Aggarwal, Head of Department – ​​Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolic Diseases, Sahyadri Super Specialty Hospital, Nagar Road, Pune, who explains the connection between the two. work stress and diabetesAnd how our lifestyle can worsen this situation.

Dr. Aggarwal explains that when we are stressed, our body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, triggering the “fight or flight” response. This response can be beneficial in the short term during emergencies. However, if stress becomes a chronic condition, these hormone levels remain elevated longer than necessary, disrupting the body’s normal functions. This includes increased glucose production from the liver and decreased insulin sensitivity in tissues such as muscle and fat. This imbalance can lead to insulin resistance, an important precursor to type 2 diabetes.

How stress affects lifestyle choices

High-pressure job demands can often lead to poor health habits, which directly contribute to the risk of developing diabetes. For example, working long hours leaves little time for regular physical activity and leads to quick, often unhealthy meals on the go, which contribute to poor nutrition and weight gain.

“Stress can also trigger cravings for high-calorie, sugary foods for quick energy gains, which is especially harmful because excess weight is a significant risk factor for diabetes. Additionally, busy work schedules can disrupt natural sleep patterns. Adequate sleep is important for maintaining insulin sensitivity and regulating appetite-controlling hormones, such as ghrelin and leptin. Lack of sleep can increase appetite and lead to weight gain, further increasing the risk of metabolic disturbances,” he said.

Effect of stress on glucose levels

Dr. Agarwal explains that chronic stress chronically activates the sympathetic nervous system – the part of the nervous system that increases heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress. Although this reaction is usually for short-term management, in the long term, it may impair glucose metabolism. This constant state of physiological arousal can worsen insulin resistance and increase the chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

Psychological effects and behavioral responses to stress

Stress often brings about psychological effects such as anxiety or depression, which are linked to an increased risk of diabetes. Dr. Aggarwal explains that people who work under constant stress may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms like emotional eating, smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. These behaviors can increase insulin resistance and increase the risk of developing diabetes, leading to a vicious cycle of stress and poor health.

It is important to be aware of the early warning signs of diabetes, including:

– constant fatigue,

-Sudden weight gain,

– excessive thirst,

-Frequent urination, and,

– difficulty concentrating.

How to reduce the risk of work-related diabetes?

Although it may not be possible to eliminate work-related stress, its effects on health can be reduced.

– Adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga can have a great impact on one’s ability to manage stress.

– Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is essential to maintain hormonal balance and overall health.

– Establishing clear boundaries between professional and personal life plays an important role in reducing stress and preventing burnout.

– Managing workload effectively, delegating tasks and ensuring adequate downtime can help maintain both mental and physical health. Achieving a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal life is essential to maintaining not only career success but overall health.

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