Diabetes is not caused only by eating sugar, endocrinologist reveals how stress, irregular sleep, poor lifestyle raise the risk

Causes of diabetes: Endocrinologists say that while sugary foods contribute to the disease, the real causes are shaped by genetics, lifestyle, hormones, among other things (Image: Pexels)

The focus of World Diabetes Day this year is on “Diabetes and Well-being” — a call to look at how high blood sugar touches not only our bodies but also our minds, workplaces, and our daily lives. It’s time, experts say, to see beyond the spoonful of sugar.

Many still think diabetes is caused by eating too many sweets. Dr Himanshu Sharma, Consultant in Endocrinology at Sarvodaya Hospital, Greater Noida West, tells Moneycontrol, “Sugar isn’t the whole story. The real roots of diabetes lie in how we live, move, sleep, and even handle stress.”

He explains that while sugary foodscontribute, the real causes are layered, shaped by genetics, lifestyle, hormones, and the choices you make each day.

Many people fret about sugar in their tea. “But they rarely think about how their job stress, lack of sleep, or inactivity put them at risk,” says Dr Sharma.

• Insulin resistance: When the body’s cells stop responding properly to insulin—often due to excess weight, lack of movement, and fat around vital organs.

• Genetics and family history: Your genes don’t decide everything, but they do load the dice. Combine them with poor lifestyle habits, and the risk soars.

• Sedentary lifestyle: Long hours at a desk, little movement, and weak muscles all spell trouble for your metabolism.

• Sleep deprivation and stress:High cortisol levels and erratic sleep disrupt your body’s balance, pushing blood sugar up.

• Hormonal and metabolic disorders: Conditions like PCOS, thyroid issues, and fatty liver disease can all make diabetes more likely.

The World Diabetes Day 2025 theme highlights how diabetes can affect anyone — children, adults, parents, workers, and older adults alike. “Prevention,” says Dr Sharma, “has to start early and continue through life.” He also stresses that well-being is not just about physical fitness but also mental resilience, emotional health, and supportive workplaces. “Your state of mind is as important as your blood sugar reading,” he adds.

Dr Sharma shares tips on how to take charge of your health:

• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.

• Balance your diet: Fewer processed foods, more whole grains, lean proteins, and colourful vegetables.

• Sleep well and ease stress: Rest is a powerful tool against high blood sugar.

• Know your numbers: Track your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and waistline.

• Workplace wellness: If you sit for long hours, get up, stretch, and walk often. Employers, too, can promote a culture of health.

As the world marks World Diabetes Day 2025, Dr Sharma urges us to see the bigger picture. “Diabetes isn’t about the next dessert—it’s about well-being across the life course,” he says. “By recognising the deeper causes and caring for both body and mind, we can help people live fuller, healthier lives.”