Blood sugar levels are a key factor in allowing us to feel well and function at our best. Carbohydrates, which are our body’s main source of energy, come from grains, starchy vegetables such as potatoes and corn, fruit, and dairy products. When the carbohydrates enter the bloodstream, some of it turns into energy for our bodies. Although we need them to fuel our bodies, eating carbohydrates on an empty stomach or eating them in excess amounts can be overwhelming to our bodies. Since your body needs some carbohydrates to run effectively, it is important to balance your intake of carbs to maximize your body’s health and energy output.
Managing your blood sugar levels can prevent long-term serious health conditions like heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease. Too much glucose in the body can eventually lead to diabetes. Over time, these high levels can lead to severe damage to the body’s organs. This can lead to damage in the large and/or small blood vessels. When the blood vessels are damaged, a heart attack, stroke, and problems with the kidneys, eyes, gums, and feet can occur. Short-term effects of low blood sugar levels include dizziness, shaking, sweating, anxiety, irritability, confusion, and hunger.
By keeping blood sugar levels in a healthy target range, you can improve your energy and mood. A study found positive associations between high sugar intake and common mental disorders. High blood sugar has been associated with anger and sadness, while low blood sugar has been associated with nervousness. Many people who experience these mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and irritability, do not realize their blood sugar levels can be causing it, no matter if they are high or low.
There are a lot of things you can do to help manage your blood sugar. You can keep your blood sugar under control by eating fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular physical activity. It is also beneficial to drink lots of water, eat at regular times without skipping meals, limit alcoholic drinks, and control your food portions.
References
Is Your Mood Disorder a Sympton of Unstable Blood Sugar?. (2019, October 21). https://sph.umich.edu/pursuit/2019posts/mood-blood-sugar-kujawski.html.
Manage Blood Sugar. (2022). https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/manage-blood-sugar.html