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Why people with diabetes are at a higher risk of dehydration and how to prevent it |

Sandy Verma November 06, 2025 11:25 AM

Managing blood sugar is a crucial part of living with diabetes, but maintaining proper hydration is just as essential for overall health. Dehydration doesn’t only cause thirst, dry mouth, or fatigue; it can also make blood sugar harder to control, increasing the risk of spikes and other complications. When the body loses too much fluid, glucose in the blood becomes more concentrated, which can worsen hyperglycaemia and place extra strain on the kidneys and cardiovascular system. Understanding the connection between diabetes and dehydration, recognising early warning signs such as frequent urination, dizziness, or dark urine, and taking steps to stay hydrated daily can help prevent serious health problems and support long-term well-being.

How diabetes can lead to dehydration

According to a study published in the Journal of the Association of Physicians of Indiaindividuals with diabetes face a markedly increased risk of dehydration due to the combined effects of osmotic diuresis and fluid imbalance. The authors explain that high blood sugar forces the kidneys to excrete excess glucose, which in turn pulls water from the body’s tissues, and this process may be further exacerbated by factors such as hot weather, illness, strenuous exercise, or inadequate fluid intake. The study emphasises that maintaining adequate hydration is a critical and often overlooked component of managing diabetes and preventing serious complications.When blood sugar levels rise beyond what the body can process, the kidneys work harder to remove the excess glucose through urine. This process pulls extra water from the body’s tissues, leading to frequent urination and fluid loss. As a result, the blood becomes more concentrated with glucose, which can make sugar levels appear higher and worsen dehydration. Over time, this cycle can strain the kidneys, circulatory system, and overall metabolic balance.

Why are people with diabetes more vulnerable to dehydration

Several factors make dehydration more common and potentially dangerous for people with diabetes:

High blood sugar levels trigger frequent urination.
Certain medications can affect kidney function, urine output, or thirst perception.
Exercise, hot weather, and illness increase fluid loss through sweat, vomiting, or diarrhoea.
Diabetes complications, such as kidney or nerve problems, can reduce the body’s ability to detect dehydration early.
Even mild dehydration can have a more significant impact on someone with diabetes compared to the general population.

Signs and symptoms of dehydration

Recognising early warning signs is crucial. Common symptoms include:

Persistent thirst or dry mouth
Dark or reduced urine
Dry eyes or skin
Headaches, dizziness, or light-headedness
Fatigue or feeling unusually tired

Severe dehydration may also cause low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or fainting. If these symptoms appear alongside high blood sugar, it is important to take action immediately.

How hydration affects blood sugar

While drinking water does not directly lower blood sugar, it plays a key role in maintaining balance. Adequate hydration helps dilute glucose in the bloodstream and supports kidney function, which is responsible for filtering out excess sugar. Proper fluid intake also reduces the risk of elevated blood sugar readings caused by dehydration, making hydration a simple but powerful tool in diabetes management.

Practical hydration tips for people with diabetes

Here are simple strategies to stay hydrated and support your health:

Drink water regularly rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.
Limit sugary drinks, which can increase blood sugar without properly hydrating.
Monitor urine colour; pale urine usually indicates sufficient hydration.
Adjust for activity and weather, as heat and exercise increase fluid needs.
Consider medications and health conditions that may influence hydration.

Spread out water intake throughout the day to maintain balance and avoid sleep disruption from frequent nighttime urination.

When dehydration becomes serious

Severe dehydration can lead to dangerous complications in people with diabetes, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in type 1 diabetes or hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS) in type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of severe dehydration include extreme thirst, confusion, vomiting, very dark urine, or fruity-smelling breath. If these signs occur, prompt medical attention is essential.

Why hydration matters for long-term health

Proper hydration supports kidney function, blood circulation, and overall metabolic balance. By maintaining adequate fluid intake, you reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes caused by dehydration and help your body manage excess glucose more efficiently. Hydration also aids in energy levels, concentration, and general well-being, making it a key part of holistic diabetes management.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or lifestyle.Your brain’s shape could reveal Alzheimer’s years before symptoms appear; scientists find