ESPHave you ever felt irritable, shaky, anxious, or unable to concentrate when you've gone too long without eating? It could be your blood sugar talking. While there are many reasons our moods fluctuate, dips in blood sugar can affect how we feel—and eating enough protein may help keep things on a more even keel.
Your brain relies on a steady supply of glucose (blood sugar) for energy. When blood sugar drops too low, you may experience symptoms such as:
• Irritability or mood swings
• Fatigue or low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling anxious or jittery
• Hunger and food cravings
• Headaches
These symptoms can occur for many reasons, including skipping meals, eating a meal high in refined carbohydrates, or exercising without eating enough beforehand.
How Protein Can Help
Protein digests more slowly than simple carbohydrates, helping you feel full longer and slowing the rise and fall of blood sugar after a meal. When you include protein with your meals and snacks, it can help:
• Provide longer-lasting energy
• Reduce mid-afternoon energy crashes
• Help you feel satisfied between meals
• Support steadier blood sugar levels as part of a balanced diet
While protein doesn't prevent hypoglycemia or treat blood sugar disorders, it can help support steadier blood sugar levels as part of an overall balanced eating pattern.
