Since glucose is the primary source of energy for the brain, when the blood sugar becomes low, it can lead to sudden mood changes as the brain struggles to regulate mood, leading to irritability, anxiety, or sudden sadness. These change in one’s emotions is often dismissed as stress, but if mood swings happen repeatedly, then it may be due to hypoglycemia. If you notice your irritability easing after eating, then that’s a strong indicator that your mood swings are due to low blood glucose. Eating regular, balanced meals helps maintain steady energy and emotional stability.
A 2020 study titled ‘Glucose variability and mood in adults with diabetes’ found that higher glucose level changes correlates with more mood swings— especially in people with diabetes, impacting anxiety, sadness, and agitation. Continuous glucose monitoring linked rapid post-meal glucose increases with mood instability.
