What Is the Dawn Phenomenon?

The dawn phenomenon, also called high morning blood glucose, refers to the high blood sugar levels that about half of people with diabetes can experience between 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. It likely happens when hormones signal your body to produce more glucose to give you energy for waking. With diabetes, your body can’t use insulin well enough to respond to this early-morning spike in glucose. So, you wake up with high blood sugar.

If you experience the dawn phenomenon, morning exercise may help bring your blood sugar levels down. Some people may need insulin therapy. Your best bet is to work with your doctor to find the right solution for you.