Reactive Hypoglycemia (ICD-10 code E16.1) or a sugar crash can do more than just make you tired. It can lead to feeling of hunger, irritability, anxiousness, headaches or even difficulty concentrating. With Halloween just around the corner, it seems there is a candy dish stocked full of treats everywhere you turn. It’s not just about the effects, it’s also about prevention. Here are a few fun reads on how to keep your blood sugar levels in check during the upcoming holidays.nnSugar Crash Effects and How to fix Them:nnThe sugar high is all fun and games until the resulting sugar crash affects the quality of your day. The term refers to the sudden drop in energy levels after consuming a large amount of carbohydrates. This can include pastas and pizza but is usually more common after eating simple carbohydrates, also known as simple sugars, such as desserts.nnA sugar crash often causes many undesired symptoms that can disrupt productivity and energy levels throughout the day.nnSanford Health, suggests balance, moderation and consistency are the most effective ways to avoid these crashes. Herrick shares her knowledge on sugar crashes, how to avoid them and what to do if you get one.nnClick here to read the full article!nn5 Tips to Avoid an Afternoon Crash:nnAre you falling asleep mid-task, having trouble concentrating on conversations, or wanting to take a mid-afternoon nap at your desk? Most of us have experienced the overwhelming sensation of exhaustion at less-than-optimal times. The good news is that you may be able to prevent fatigue and boost energy levels by paying attention to what and when you eat.nnWhat does a sugar crash feel like?nnYou may experience a crash after indulging in high amounts of carbohydrates, especially artificial sugars such as cake and ice cream. Although the human body needs sugar, it also needs the amount of sugar to remain at a consistent level.nnWhen the body has more sugar than it’s used to, it rapidly produces insulin in attempt to keep the levels consistent. This causes blood glucose to decrease, which results in a sudden drop in energy levels, also known as hypoglycemia, or a sugar crash.nnWhen the body experiences this drastic drop in energy, it can experience undesired symptoms such as:n
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- hunger
- irritability
- fatigue
- discomfort
- anxiety
- headaches
- difficulty concentrating
- excess sweat
- jitters
- shakiness
- dizziness
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nSugar crashes generally cause us to be incredibly distracted throughout the day, which leads to a lack of productivity and concentration. Confusion, abnormal behavior, the inability to complete routine tasks and blurred vision are also common symptoms, especially for those who have diabetes. People with diabetes may experience more severe symptoms such as loss of consciousness, seizures or coma, if the crash is harsh enough, because of their increased sensitivity to inconsistent sugar levels.nnClick here to read the full article!nnOriginal articles published on sanfordhealth.org and foodinsight.org