Air pollution can cause high blood sugar, warns study

The pollution is not just bad for your lungs, it is also causing spike in blood sugar levels (Picture Credit: Canva)

As soon as winter is around the corner, a lot of us begin to dread about the rise in smog and pollutants in the air. Well, our collective fears are valid for more reason that one. Not only does increase in pollution impact our lungs, but it also leads to a rise in blood sugar levels, as per a recent study. The result? More people falling prey to diabetes.

Yes! The recent studies have established a correlation between rise in pollution and increase in the blood sugar levels. To wrap our head around this correlation and understand in great detail what exactly happens, Moneycontrol's team reached out to Dr Monika Sharma, senior consultant, endocrinology, Aakash Healthcare, and Dr Sandeep Kharb, senior consultant, endocrinology, Asian hospital.

How pollutants in air impact blood sugar levels

"Yes, the study indicates that a higher level of air pollution, especially fine particles (PM2.5) in the air, may cause increase in blood sugar levels. The presence of the pollutants causes oxidative stress and inflammation. This in turn disrupts insulin signaling and glucose metabolism," explained Dr Sharma.

Adding to this, Dr Kharb shared that people who already have diabetes or some kind of metabolic syndrome are more prone to experiencing spike in blood sugar levels, because their bodies are already weak and they react negatively to outside stressors.

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Impact of increase in blood sugar levels

Dr Sharma explained that when the level of sugar in the blood increases above normal value, the insulin secreted by the pancreas is increased to assist the cells to absorb glucose. "With time, when this is sustained, the cells in the body become less receptive to insulin, thereby causing insulin resistance," shared Dr Sharma.

Dr Kharb added that the increase in the level of sugar in blood leads to metabolic imbalance. "In the short-term, individuals can suffer exhaustion, excessive urination, excessive thirst, or blurred vision. In the long run, the constant presence of glucose can impair blood vessels, nerves, and other organs, elevating the chances of heart diseases, kidney diseases, and lung complications in particular, in the presence of poor air quality," he highlighted.

Palpable impact of pollution...

Dr Sharma shared that she has seen a tangible difference in blood sugar levels when the pollutants in air go down. "As soon as the quality of air improves, patients who are particularly sensitive or diabetic exhibit improved glycemic control. Less inflammatory stress and oxidative burden leads to increased effectiveness of insulin," she told Moneycontrol.

"This implies that when people come in contact with less pollutants in the air, the inflammatory mechanism of the body can be calmed down, which indirectly facilitates the control of glucose," added Dr Kharb.

Regions where AQI is less

Dr Sharma said it is true that people who live in areas where there's cleaner air, they tend to have fewer risks of insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. "Low air quality is not only a cause of respiratory or heart related problems, but also hormonal and metabolic disorders. Preventive measures should be adopted by people living in high-pollution areas. From installing air purifiers in  homes, using masks to protect from smog, taking a balanced diet containing antioxidants to going for regular health examination, they must take all these precautions and more," she said.

Dr Kharb also added that cleaner air helped in maintaining general hormonal stability and made it easier to maintain normal blood sugar levels, thereby reducing the threat of diabetes-related complications.

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FAQs on harmful effects of living in high-pollution areas:

1. How does air pollution affect health?

It can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and increase the risk of asthma and lung diseases.

2. Can pollution harm the heart?

Yes. Long-term exposure to polluted air increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

3. Does pollution affect children more?

Yes. Children’s lungs are still developing, making them more vulnerable to polluted air.

4. Can air pollution impact mental health?

Studies show it may contribute to stress, anxiety, and cognitive decline over time.

5. How can I reduce pollution exposure?

Wear masks outdoors, use air purifiers indoors, and avoid heavy-traffic areas when possible.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.