Why Does Poor Sleep Increase Your Risk of Heart Attack and Diabetes? That constant tiredness and low energy the next day isn’t just about feeling sleepy — your heart and metabolism may actually be under more stress than you realise. When you don’t sleep enough, your body releases more cortisol, the stress hormone. This keeps your blood pressure elevated for longer hours and puts direct strain on your heart and blood vessels. Poor sleep also disrupts how your body uses insulin. Your cells become less responsive, causing your blood sugar to rise — and your pancreas to work overtime. Over time, this cycle sets the stage for diabetes. Low sleep increases inflammation, triggers late-night snacking, and confuses your hunger hormones, all of which add to the metabolic burden. Consistent, high-quality sleep helps regulate blood pressure, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces inflammation — lowering your long-term risk of heart disease and diabetes. Remember — it’s not about sleeping more occasionally, but getting good sleep consistently so your heart and metabolism stay protected. #sleephealth #hearthealth #bloodsugarbalance #metabolismfacts #diabetesawareness #cardiologytips