Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – March ·18, 2026 – In the latest edition of the popular weekly health column “Living Well with Diabetes”, Dr. Annie Tan, Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician, addresses an often-overlooked but important issue: “How Do Emotions and Stress Management Influence Blood Sugar Control?”
The column explains why blood sugar levels can rise during stressful periods even when diet is well-controlled, and offers practical strategies that combine Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) approaches.
Key Insights from the Column
From a Western medicine perspective, chronic stress triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which directly raise blood glucose levels and can worsen insulin resistance over time. The column highlights effective techniques including mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, cognitive behavioural strategies, and counselling. Managing “diabetes distress” is also emphasised, as reducing emotional burden improves treatment adherence and overall health outcomes.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) viewpoint, emotional stress is often linked to liver Qi stagnation. This stagnation can “invade” the spleen, leading to dampness or heat that aggravates diabetes patterns. To restore balance, TCM recommends mind-body practices such as Tai Chi, Qigong, and meditation. Calming herbs may also be used under professional guidance to soothe the liver, strengthen the spleen, and harmonise emotions with physical health.
Integrating both approaches, Dr. Annie Tan encourages readers to combine evidence-based Western stress-reduction methods with TCM’s mind-body exercises. This dual strategy helps achieve both emotional and energetic balance. The column stresses that addressing the emotional side of diabetes often leads to more stable blood glucose levels and better quality of life. Stress should be viewed as a manageable factor rather than an inevitable part of living with diabetes.
“Many people notice their blood sugar rises during stressful times despite careful eating,” said Dr. Annie Tan. “By understanding the link between emotions and glucose control, and by using both Western techniques and TCM practices like Tai Chi and Qigong, individuals can better manage stress and enjoy more stable blood sugar and improved wellbeing. Stress is manageable when we take proactive steps.”
This column is part of the ongoing 20-week series “Living Well with Diabetes”, which provides practical, everyday guidance by blending Western clinical guidelines (including the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) with TCM principles. With Malaysia facing a high diabetes prevalence of approximately 21.1% among adults, the series aims to empower readers with balanced, culturally relevant tools for better self-management.
The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners for individual care.
About Dr. Annie Tan
Dr. Annie Tan is a Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician. She brings dual expertise in Western diabetes care and TCM, aligned with Malaysian regulatory standards including the Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) Act 2016. She is committed to providing practical, culturally sensitive education that helps patients integrate lifestyle, medical therapy, and complementary approaches for improved long-term outcomes.

About Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd
Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd (also known as 富康中医养生) is a wellness centre specialising in Traditional Chinese Medicine services, including meridian therapy and holistic care. For more information, visit www.sante-wellness.com.
About Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd
Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd is associated with innovative health solutions, including Low Frequency Pulse Therapy. For more details, visit fnyglobal.asia.
The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners for individual care, especially regarding foot health and any complementary therapies.