Trauma is not just an affliction of the mind. It can wreak havoc on our bodies, specifically blood sugar, increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes. This is especially concerning for women. Learn about the effects of trauma on glucose levels, and why it’s vital for women to take control of their health.
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When we think of type 2 diabetes – and particularly overweight women who have this condition – we think of diet and exercise. Some might think that personal choices, i.e unhealthy eating habits led to the condition. But studies have suggested that chronic stress, trauma and post-traumatic disorder can also play a role in the risk for diabetes, especially for women. There are biological processes at play here and it’s important we know what they are.
The stress response and blood sugar
The primary stress hormones in our bodies are cortisol and adrenaline. These are helpful in short bursts because they keep us out of danger: when we’re presented with a threat, it’s these hormones that’ll elevate, influencing the fight and flight response so we can escape danger. But prolonged elevation of these hormones, which happens in instances of repeated trauma, interferes with how the body uses insulin. This leads to insulin resistance, a key driver of type 2 diabetes.
Over time, high cortisol levels raises blood sugar, and you may notice yourself gaining weight around the belly, and changes in appetite. So trauma doesn’t just live in the mind but also the body.
Metabolic health
Trauma changes the nervous system. Studies show that even accounting for lifestyle factors, people who have had severe traumatic experiences are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is because trauma affects:
- Sleep quality – poor sleep impairs glucose control
- Inflammation – chronic inflammation worsens insulin regulation
- Hormone regulation
- Energy regulation and emotional eating
Is it just ‘bad habits’?
No. Trauma leads to coping mechanisms such as binge eating, smoking, and reduced physical activity. However, diabetes risk can rise in people who do eat well and stay active.
How to support mental and physical health
Understanding the connection between trauma and diabetes can help us to stop the blame game. It can urge us to be more compassionate to ourselves, and make us aware that any form of trauma needs to be addressed. Whether you seek therapy, take steps to regulate your nervous system, and do stress-management exercises, you absolutely have the control to improve your mental health as well as protect long-term metabolic health.
The bottom line
We know that women are more likely to experience certain forms of trauma and stress-related issues. Add to that pregnancy, perimenopause and menopause, and we have a severe dyregulated body and stress on blood sugar regulation. The only choice really is to take your health in your own hands, reduce stress and prioritise your well-being. It is possible.
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Feature image: Freepik
