The Somogyi effect describes low blood sugar reactions (hypoglycemia) during the night while you sleep that result in high blood glucose readings in the morning. When you experience nighttime hypoglycemia, your body will try to compensate by releasing hormones. In turn, they cause a release of stored glucose in your liver. This “rebound” surge of glucose can cause you to awaken with high blood glucose levels.
It might be possible to eliminate the nighttime lows by eating a light bedtime snack that includes some protein to keep glucose levels balanced with insulin. The best way to assess this problem is to check your blood in the middle of the night (around 3 a.m.) on several nights to determine if you’re blood sugar is going low.
Source:
Stedman’s Medical Dictionary. Retrieved November 21, 2008. http://www.stedmans.com/section.cfm/45 .
