Try These Acupressure Points Before Bed to Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Managing blood sugar levels overnight is a challenge for many people with diabetes. If you frequently wake up with high blood sugar, acupressure may offer a natural way to support better glucose regulation. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapist from Japan, to identify the most effective diabetes acupressure point to use before bedtime. She recommends stimulating a combination of acupressure points to help regulate blood sugar levels overnight.

Acupressure has been widely used in TCM for centuries to promote overall health, including balancing energy flow and supporting organ function. If you’re new to this technique, check out this comprehensive guide to acupressure for a deeper understanding of its benefits and methods.

Below are four acupressure points Ms. Mai recommends pressing before bed to help regulate overnight blood sugar levels.

Best Acupressure Points to Help Control Blood Sugar Overnight

1. BL-20 (Spleen Shu) – Supports the Spleen for Better Digestion

Location: On the lower back, about 1.5 inches away from the spine, at the level of the 11th thoracic vertebra.

How It Helps:
BL-20 is the primary acupressure point for strengthening the spleen, which plays a crucial role in digestion and metabolism in TCM. A weak spleen can contribute to poor glucose regulation, making it harder for the body to process sugar effectively. Stimulating this point can enhance digestion and improve nutrient absorption, indirectly supporting stable blood sugar levels.

How to Stimulate:
Apply firm pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this three times before moving to the next point.

2. SI-4 (Small Intestine-4) – Supports Metabolism and Blood Sugar Balance

Location: On the outer edge of the hand, in a small depression between the base of the pinky finger and the wrist bone.

How It Helps:
SI-4 is known to support the body’s metabolic processes and regulate energy flow. In TCM, this point is often used to strengthen the digestive system and enhance the function of the pancreas, which plays a key role in blood sugar regulation. Stimulating SI-4 before bed may help promote more stable glucose levels overnight.

How to Stimulate:
Use your thumb or index finger to apply pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat three times on each hand.

3. LI-11 (Large Intestine-11) – Reduces Inflammation and Supports Blood Sugar Regulation

Location: At the outer end of the elbow crease when you bend your arm.

How It Helps:
LI-11 is one of the most effective points for reducing heat and inflammation in the body. Since chronic inflammation is linked to insulin resistance and diabetes, stimulating this point can help improve glucose metabolism and support overall health.

How to Stimulate:
Press the point with firm but comfortable pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat this process three times on each arm.

4. SP-8 (Spleen-8) – A Key Point for Balancing Blood Sugar

Location: On the inner lower leg, about three finger-widths below the knee joint, along the tibia bone.

How It Helps:
SP-8 is a powerful acupressure point for regulating blood sugar levels by supporting spleen and kidney function. In TCM, these organs are essential for processing nutrients and maintaining overall metabolic balance. Stimulating SP-8 before bed can help regulate blood glucose overnight and prevent early-morning spikes.

How to Stimulate:
Apply comfortable pressure for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat three times on each leg.

How to Incorporate These Acupressure Points into Your Nighttime Routine

To maximize the benefits of these diabetes acupressure points, follow this simple routine before bed:

1. Find a quiet space – Sit or lie down in a relaxed position.
2. Use your fingers or thumb – Apply gentle but firm pressure on each point.
3. Follow the sequence – BL-20, SI-62, LI-11, and SP-8.
4. Breathe deeply – Take slow, deep breaths to enhance relaxation.
5. Repeat consistently – Make acupressure part of your nightly routine for best results.

Final Thoughts

If you struggle with high blood sugar in the morning, incorporating acupressure into your bedtime routine might be a natural and effective way to support better glucose regulation. These four acupressure points—BL-20, SI-62, LI-11, and SP-8—target digestion, circulation, and inflammation, all of which play a role in blood sugar balance.

While acupressure is a helpful complementary practice, it’s important to continue following your doctor’s recommendations for managing diabetes. When combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper medication, acupressure can be a valuable tool for better blood sugar control.

Would you like to learn more about how acupressure can support your health? Check out our comprehensive guide to acupressure to explore other techniques and benefits!

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