Sugar can cause mental irritability.

Sugar can cause irritation or mood changes due to the rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Here’s how it happens:

1. Sugar Spike – When you consume sugary foods or refined carbohydrates, your blood glucose levels rise quickly, leading to a surge in energy (a “sugar high”).
2. Insulin Response – The body releases insulin to lower blood sugar by helping cells absorb glucose.
3. Blood Sugar Crash – Sometimes, insulin overcompensates, causing blood sugar to drop too low (hypoglycemia), leading to symptoms like:
   • Irritability
   • Fatigue
   • Anxiety
   • Shakiness
   • Difficulty concentrating

This crash can trigger mood swings and make people feel more agitated or angry, sometimes referred to as being “hangry” (hungry + angry).

How to Prevent Sugar-Related Irritation:

• Eat balanced meals (include protein, fiber, and healthy fats to slow sugar absorption).
• Avoid high-sugar snacks on an empty stomach.
• Choose complex carbs (whole grains, vegetables) over refined sugars.
• Stay hydrated (dehydration can worsen mood swings).
• Monitor caffeine intake, as it can worsen blood sugar crashes.

If you frequently experience severe mood swings or crashes, it may help to check your diet and consult a healthcare provider to rule out conditions like insulin resistance or reactive hypoglycemia.