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Health Information and Tools >  Dawn Phenomenon
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Dawn Phenomenon

Overview

The dawn phenomenon can cause high blood sugar levels, especially in the morning before breakfast, in people who have diabetes.

The dawn phenomenon is a normal rise in blood sugar as a person's body prepares to wake up.

  • In the early morning hours, hormones (growth hormone, cortisol, and catecholamines) cause the liver to release large amounts of sugar into the bloodstream. For most people, the body produces insulin to control the rise in blood sugar.
  • If the body doesn't produce enough insulin, blood sugar levels can rise. This may cause high blood sugar in the morning (before eating).

If you have diabetes and your blood sugars are often high in the morning, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your medicines.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.