Why is my blood sugar always high in the morning even if I haven't eaten?

This is a very common occurrence known as the "dawn phenomenon." In the early morning hours (usually between 3:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.), the body naturally releases a surge of hormones, such as cortisol and growth hormone, to help you wake up and prepare for the day. These hormones signal the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream for energy while simultaneously making the body slightly more insulin resistant. For individuals with diabetes, the body cannot produce or effectively use enough insulin to counter this morning glucose dump, resulting in a high waking blood sugar. Adjusting the timing of evening medication, doing light physical activity after dinner, or modifying late-night snacks can help mitigate this effect.