India may see a 73% increase in diabetes cases by 2050: 7 morning habits to keep blood sugar in control

By 2050, diabetes cases in India are expected to rise by 73%, reaching over 156 million people. That’s not just a number—it’s a warning bell. With fast-changing lifestyles, irregular diets, stress, and lack of physical activity becoming the norm, the country is heading towards a serious health crisis. As per International Diabetes Federation (IDF) data, in India alone, 89.8 million people suffer from diabetes. But there’s something hopeful in all this. The way a day begins can have a huge impact on how blood sugar behaves throughout. Morning hours are like a reset button for the body, and simple habits practiced regularly can go a long way in preventing sugar spikes, even before breakfast is served.Here are 7 simple things that can be done every morning to help manage blood sugar naturally—without medication.Exposure to early morning sunlight helps regulate the circadian rhythm, which in turn supports better insulin sensitivity. According to research, aligning body clocks with daylight improves blood sugar metabolism. A habit as small as sitting near a window or stepping out on the balcony for 15 minutes can have a long-term impact.One traditional remedy backed by science. Methi dana (fenugreek) is rich in soluble fibre that helps slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Soaking one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a glass of water overnight and consuming it first thing in the morning has shown results in managing fasting blood sugar levels.Intense workouts can spike cortisol in the morning, which may in turn, elevate blood sugar levels. Instead, start with gentle movement—think yoga stretches, walking barefoot on grass, or 10 minutes of pranayama. A study highlights how low-intensity morning activities improve glucose regulation better than sudden strenuous activity.Eating a fruit on an empty stomach may not be everyone’s first choice, but when chosen smartly, it helps. Fruits like guava, jamun, kiwi, or amla are excellent picks as they are low on the glycemic index and rich in fibre. These can help in preventing post-breakfast sugar spikes while also supporting digestion.This little homemade potion can do wonders. Cinnamon helps improve insulin sensitivity, while clove has anti-inflammatory properties. Boiling a stick of cinnamon with 2 cloves in water and sipping it warm every morning can aid blood sugar control. This simple habit can be a comforting, aromatic addition to the morning routine.Scrolling through phones the moment the eyes open is a common habit, but it leads to a mental sugar spike—rushing thoughts, anxiety, and an early surge in stress hormones. Instead, begin with five minutes of silence or journaling, which helps regulate morning cortisol and keeps sugar levels stable. Emotional stress is a silent trigger for poor glucose control, especially in urban lives.Waiting too long to eat after waking up can cause the body to go into a mini ‘fasting stress’, triggering spikes in blood glucose when food is finally consumed. A well-balanced breakfast within one hour of waking up—ideally with a mix of protein, complex carbs, and good fats—can help manage blood sugar throughout the day. Think moong chilla with curd, oats with nuts, or a besan toast with avocado.