A fasting blood glucose reading of 105 mg/dL can worry someone without diabetes, but it does not necessarily indicate the disease. Doctors classify levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL as the pre-diabetes range, suggesting the body faces some strain in managing sugar. This condition may progress to diabetes without lifestyle changes, but it serves as an early warning rather than a diagnosis. Various factors contribute to slightly elevated fasting glucose, including overnight liver activity, mild insulin resistance, stress hormones, poor sleep, late-night eating, alcohol, certain medications, and dehydration. A single elevated reading should not cause panic but deserves attention. Experts recommend retesting after a few months, possibly including an HbA1c test, and adopting healthier habits. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and annual monitoring are crucial, especially for those with a family history of diabetes.
Understanding the Causes and Taking Action
Several physiological reasons explain borderline fasting glucose. During sleep, the liver releases stored glucose for essential functions, and in some individuals, this release is slightly higher. Mild insulin resistance linked to weight gain, inactivity, stress, or genetics can also elevate fasting sugar. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline peak in early morning, a phenomenon known as the dawn phenomenon. Experts advise retesting in a few months and including an HbA1c test to measure three-month average blood sugar. A lifestyle reset with regular exercise, fewer refined carbohydrates, adequate sleep, and stress management offers the best protection. Annual monitoring is especially important for those with a family history of diabetes.
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