As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, many people living with diabetes notice something unexpected: their blood sugar levels start to rise. If you’ve ever wondered why your glucose numbers seem harder to manage in winter, you’re not imagining it, and you’re not alone in it either.

Cold weather affects your body in several ways that can make blood sugar control more difficult. But with a few simple seasonal strategies, you can stay ahead of those wintertime spikes and keep your diabetes management on track!

Why Does Blood Sugar Spike in Cold Weather?

Here are some common reasons your glucose levels might run higher when it’s cold out:

1. Increased Stress Hormones

Cold temperatures can trigger your body to release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones reduce insulin production and stimulate your liver to release more glucose, leading to higher blood sugar levels.

2. Less Physical Activity

When it’s chilly outside, it’s tempting to stay indoors and skip your usual walk or workout. But less movement means your body isn’t using glucose as efficiently, which can cause levels to rise.

3. Comfort Foods and Holiday Treats

Hearty casseroles, baked goods, and carb-heavy comfort foods are everywhere during the winter months. Seasonal celebrations also tend to throw off meal routines.

4. Cold and Flu Season

Illness puts stress on the body, which can raise blood sugar levels. Plus, being sick often disrupts your normal eating, hydration, and medication habits.

Read More: Starting a CGM? Here's What You Need to Know

6 Practical Tips to Keep Blood Sugar Steady This Winter

The cold doesn’t have to throw your diabetes management off track. Try these strategies to stay in control all season long:

1. Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to forget to drink water when it’s cold, but dehydration can concentrate your blood sugar and make it harder for your body to regulate glucose. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day — even if you’re not thirsty.

2. Keep Moving

You don’t need a gym to stay active. Try simple home workouts like yoga, stretching, or walking laps inside. Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively.

3. Watch Your Comfort Foods

Craving warm, carb-heavy meals is natural in winter. Instead of skipping them entirely, try healthier swaps like cauliflower mash instead of potatoes, or fiber-rich soups with lentils and greens. Spices like cinnamon and turmeric can also help support glucose control.

4. Protect Your Glucose Monitor and Supplies

Cold weather can interfere with the accuracy of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and damage insulin if it freezes. Keep your devices warm and store supplies in a temperature-controlled space.

5. Get Your Flu Shot

Preventing illness is key to keeping blood sugar stable. A flu shot reduces your risk of infection, and the blood sugar spikes that often come with it.

6. Warm Up Before Testing

Cold hands can make finger-prick testing uncomfortable. Warm your hands with a mug of tea or under warm water before checking your levels.

Related: How to Get Approved for a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor)

Why CGMs Are Especially Helpful in Winter

If you’re not already using a CGM, winter might be the perfect time to start. With round-the-clock glucose data and customizable alerts, CGMs can help you:

  • Track how meals and cold weather impact your levels
  • Catch and correct rising or falling trends early
  • Stay on top of changes caused by illness, stress, or less activity
  • Spend more time in range

At Piedmont Medical Solutions, we make it easy to get started with CGMs and help you choose the device that’s right for you.

Read More: How to Reorder Diabetes Supplies Before the End of the Year

Winter Wellness Starts with Smart Supplies

Managing diabetes in winter doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tools and habits, you can stay in control — even when the weather isn’t.

At Piedmont Medical Solutions, we offer a wide range of diabetes supplies, including continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), that help you track your levels in real time. Whether you’re looking for reliable testing equipment or support for your winter wellness routine, we’re here to help. Contact our team today to get the assistance you need.