How can stress affect diabetes management?

Stress can significantly affect diabetes management, primarily by leading to increased blood glucose levels. When a person experiences stress, the body responds by releasing stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can trigger the liver to release more glucose into the bloodstream as part of the "fight or flight" response, which prepares the body for potential danger. This increase in blood glucose can make it more challenging for individuals with diabetes to maintain their glucose levels within the desired range.

Moreover, stress might also influence diabetes management behaviors. People under stress may find it harder to stick to their meal plans, exercise routines, and medication schedules, further complicating their ability to manage blood glucose levels effectively.

In contrast, the options suggesting that stress has no impact on blood glucose levels or only decreases them do not align with the physiological responses to stress. Stress clearly plays a role in elevating blood glucose levels, making the selected answer the most accurate in the context of diabetes management.