Why Your Blood Sugar Is High on a Low-Carb Diet

Why is my blood sugar high on a low-carb diet?

I get this question all the time…

You’ve cut out sugar and excessive carbs, and yet your fasting blood sugar is still high.

What gives?

Let me break it down for you.

It’s not the sugar—it’s the stress.

When your body is under stress—whether from nutrient deficiencies, poor sleep, or even too much carb restriction—your liver cannot store enough fuel to get you through the night.

So what happens?

1. Your blood sugar drops.

2. Your body kicks into survival mode, spiking stress hormones like cortisol.

3. Cortisol breaks down muscle to create glucose (sugar) to keep your body going.

By the time you wake up, stress hormones have been running the show all night…

Which is why you wake up with high fasting blood sugar levels.

It’s not the carbs or lack of sugar…

It's the stress.

To solve the problem, look at what’s causing stress, not your diet.

If you have significant work or life stress—consider meditation, breathwork, or spending more time in nature to reset your nervous system.

If your biology depends on carbs to function (some people do, some people don’t, find out where you land here)—you should increase your carb intake.

If you don’t know what’s causing stress—you might need to take it easier in general. Sleep more, cut the fasting, exercise no more than 3 times per week, and make a habit of walking (especially after meals).

Whatever the case may be…

The problem is coming from stress, not diet.

Find what’s causing the stress and watch the issue disappear.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular healthcare provider.