World Cup matches attract millions of fans worldwide and turn match days into exceptional events that often disrupt normal sleep, eating, and daily activity patterns.
While audiences experience excitement and anticipation, people living with diabetes may face additional health challenges due to late nights, emotional stress, and irregular meal timing—factors that can significantly affect blood glucose stability and increase the risk of sudden highs or lows.
These concerns are supported by research published in Diabetologia, which links sleep disruption with poorer glycemic control. Another study in Diabetic Medicine found that irregular meal timing and inconsistent eating patterns are associated with greater glucose variability and reduced disease control.
Sleep and meal disruption increase glucose fluctuations
Dr. Fatima Al-Zahraa Nour El-Din, a family medicine consultant in Qatar, explains that major sporting events such as the World Cup can directly disrupt diabetes management routines and lead to unstable blood sugar levels due to a combination of psychological, physical, and behavioral factors.
She notes that lack of sleep and late nights trigger what she describes as a “hormonal storm,” increasing levels of hormones that raise insulin resistance and destabilize glucose control.
Emotional stress and excitement during matches can also stimulate the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which may cause sharp increases in blood sugar levels.
Recent research also shows that acute stress can elevate glucose levels by increasing insulin resistance.
Irregular eating schedules further complicate blood sugar regulation. Skipping meals or eating at inconsistent times disrupts the body’s glucose control mechanisms, while consuming high-carbohydrate snacks, fast food, and sugary drinks during matches can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose.
Risk factors during major tournaments
The specialist warns that some patients may neglect daily diabetes care while watching matches, including forgetting to monitor glucose levels or missing medication or insulin doses. This can lead to dangerous fluctuations between hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
High-risk groups include:
- Patients with type 1 diabetes
- Patients with type 2 diabetes
- Individuals with a history of recurrent hypoglycemia
These patients are more vulnerable to low blood sugar episodes, especially during sudden physical activity such as celebrating goals, or when food intake is insufficient after insulin administration.
She also notes that some patients may not recognize warning signs of hypoglycemia due to distraction or emotional excitement, increasing the risk of fainting or loss of consciousness.
Patients with comorbid conditions such as cardiovascular disease and hypertension may also face higher risks due to intense emotional stress during major sporting events.
A “World Cup health plan” for people with diabetes
Dr. Al-Zahraa recommends simple preventive steps to safely enjoy matches, including:
- Eating a balanced meal before matches
- Preparing healthy snacks when needed
- Staying well hydrated and drinking water regularly
- Avoiding sugary drinks and high-carb snacks
- Monitoring blood glucose before, during, and after matches when necessary
- Adhering to prescribed medications without missing doses
- Consulting a doctor about possible temporary adjustments to insulin or medication during disrupted routines
