What Can Increase Blood Glucose Levels?

Many everyday factors can raise blood glucose (sugar) levels. Some of the most common include:

• Food and Drinks

  • Eating carbohydrate foods – like bread, rice, pasta, sweets, or sugary drinks – can raise blood glucose.

  • Snacking between meals – even small amounts of food can increase glucose, especially if there isn’t enough insulin or activity to balance it.

• Not Enough Activity

  Sitting for long periods or not getting regular movement.

• Stress

  Physical stress (like illness, infection, injury) or emotional stress can cause the body to release hormones that raise glucose.

• Medications

  Certain medicines, such as steroids, can increase blood glucose.

• Hormonal Changes

  Menstrual cycles, puberty, and hormonal conditions can all impact glucose levels.

• Missing or Skipping Diabetes Treatment

  • Forgetting insulin or other diabetes medicines.

  • Problems with insulin delivery (e.g., pump or pen issues).

• Other Health Conditions

  Infections, colds, flu, or pain can all raise glucose.