Mood Swings and Diabetes

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How does my blood sugar effect my mood?

Mood Swings and Diabetes

Women have traditionally been characterized as the ones with mood swings, however when you have diabetes, it does not matter your gender.

Studies have shown a relationship to chocolate and mood. There is a chemical in chocolate that stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain, creating feelings of well-being and calm. So, how does this relate to diabetes?

Well, fluctuations in blood sugars or sugars that are out of range can contribute to unexplained mood swings, irritability or tearfulness. Chocolate is just one example of how sugars can impact your mood.

Stressful situations also alter the body's management of glucose, which can result in altered blood sugar values. So, though you may believe that your sudden touchiness is related to the stressful situation, you are only partially correct. For the diabetic, since stress affects the blood glucose level, the feelings you are experiencing may actually be a sudden drop or increase in your blood sugar, caused by metabolic changes and stress chemicals, such as cortisol.

If you suddenly begin to feel jumpy, grouchy or out of sorts, take a moment to check your blood sugar level. Altered glucose levels can also make it harder to concentrate and make you feel fatigued.

Testing will tell you if a snack will help get you back in range, and in a better mood.

   

Comments

8/18/2006 7:47:47 PM
Gretchen said:

This article may help someone I know who is living with someone who has diabetes. I am a nurse but know little about moods people deal with when they are dealing with an endocrine problem as serious as diabetes. This and any other info regarding this topic hopefully will hope those who love or care about someone with this ailment.


5/31/2007 3:07:21 PM
David said:

I agree that this is a interesting and believable supposition based on some good research (google the topic for more. I was concerned about mood changes and decision making problems in myself until I was diagnosed diabetic. Having worked with a few diabetic colleagues who would have a "low blood sugar rage" now and then I put 2 and 2 together and found the answer to my own mood changes. I am type II diet and oral controlled but that does not change the blood sugar effects I feel. More research is needed into a potetnially serious condition which may lie at the root of some sudden violence and or anger events in previously stable men. Alcohol may worsen and mask the diabetic link/cause and a treatable cause of agression may be being missed.


4/7/2009 7:42:02 PM
Susan said:

I am a nurse and find my diabetic patient difficult to 'read' since he also has a behavior disorder and hypothyroidism and is aging out. He has wildly fluctuating sugar levels, is on insulin and is cared for in a group home of non-medical people. This article is very down to earth and may give them something to think about.




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