Nutrition
Dawn Phenomenon
The dawn phenomenon is a hormone-driven morning glucose rise near wake time—distinct from rebound lows and relevant for CGM users.
The dawn phenomenon is an early-morning rise in blood glucose driven by growth hormone and cortisol as you approach wake—common in diabetes and sometimes visible on CGM in healthy people. It differs from the Somogyi effect, which follows overnight lows.
Evening meals, sleep quality, and medication timing interact with the pattern.
Common questions
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How is dawn phenomenon different from the Somogyi effect?
Dawn phenomenon is a normal hormone-driven morning rise; Somogyi follows untreated overnight lows that trigger rebound highs. CGM overnight curves help tell them apart.
Related terms
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