In the current fast-paced world, work-related stress is all but inevitable. Chronic stress is frequently brought on by the pressure to manage workload, meet deadlines and maintain a balance between personal and professional responsibilities. Although we are aware of the negative effects that stress can have on our mental health, new research shows that work-related stress is also associated with physical health problems, especially an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes develops when the body either produces insufficient insulin or is unable to use it correctly, leading blood sugar to rise. Stress may worsen this by releasing hormones such as cortisol, which elevate blood sugar levels. When stress occurs frequently, these spikes might put the body's capacity to regulate blood sugar under strain. Certain stressors, such as inflammation and elevated blood sugar, contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. Chronic stress can increase, creating inflammation, wearing down the immune system and increasing the risk of a number of ailments including digestive disorders, heart disease, weight gain and stroke.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. S Jayakumar, Internal Medicine, HCL Healthcare explained how work stress contributes to type 2 diabetes.

Work Stress And Type 2 Diabetes

Reduced Physical Activity

With tight job schedules, many people may struggle to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routines. A lack of physical activity can cause weight gain and decreased insulin sensitivity both of which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Additionally, exercise is a well-known stress reliever and it worsens the mental and physical effects of stress.

Insufficient Sleep

Work-related stress is a common cause of insomnia and poor-quality sleep. Sleep loss or interrupted sleep can cause insulin resistance as sleep is necessary for balanced metabolism. According to studies, those who do not get enough sleep or have irregular sleep habits are more likely to develop diabetes.

Stress And Hormones

Stress causes the release of chemicals such as cortisol and adrenaline(stress hormones), which prepare the body to respond to perceived threats. While the "fight or flight" reaction is useful in short bursts, persistent stress raises cortisol levels, affecting blood glucose regulation. Over time, this can cause insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells become less sensitive to insulin, raising the chance of developing type 2 diabetes.

Unhealthy Eating Habits Due To Stress

Work stress frequently leads to unhealthy coping behaviours such as indulging in sugary snacks, drinking excessive caffeine, smoking or adopting a sedentary lifestyle as a result of continuous desk work. These habits have a major impact on weight and metabolic health, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Increased Inflammation

Prolonged stress causes chronic inflammation, which has been linked to insulin resistance. When our bodies are consistently inflamed, the risk of metabolic illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease increases. Inflammation also hampers the body's capacity to regulate insulin properly.

Recognising The Warning Signs

Work-related stress can cause symptoms such as fatigue, irritation and difficulty concentrating. However, it is essential to monitor for physical symptoms that may signal diabetes risk, such as frequent urination, increased thirst, accidental weight loss or an increase in blood pressure.

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