Which of the following describes the Dawn phenomenon?

The Dawn phenomenon refers to the natural increase in blood glucose levels that occurs in the early morning, typically between 2 AM and 8 AM. This physiological response is influenced by hormonal changes, primarily the effect of cortisol, glucagon, and epinephrine, which are secreted in greater amounts during the night. These hormones work to increase insulin resistance and promote glucose release from the liver, resulting in higher blood glucose levels by the time a person wakes up.

This phenomenon is particularly significant for individuals with diabetes, as they may struggle to manage these elevated blood sugar levels effectively. Thus, identifying the Dawn phenomenon is crucial for developing appropriate management strategies to regulate blood glucose levels throughout the day. The other options provided do not accurately reflect this specific rise in blood glucose, making the choice that indicates high glucose at 3 AM the correct one.