I have a great fondness and love for sweet and sugary treats. Brownies, donuts, and chocolate feel like heaven on earth. But the only problem that I have is having dizziness spells. For quite a time being, I tried to find out why do I feel dizzy after eating sugar? I was afraid there is something wrong with me. I thanked God when I got to know it’s not a disease just sugar effects.
So you are just like me and got a bit of a sweet tooth and worry about feeling dizzy then keep reading as I am going to share everything I found so far.
The connection between sugar and dizziness
First of all, you need to understand the connection between sugar and dizziness.
The main source of energy for neurons or brain cells is glucose. They require double energy as compared to other body cells. Now there are two types of carbohydrates: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Examples of simple carbs are sugar, juices, corn syrup, etc. Examples of complex carbs are fruits, whole grains, etc.
As the name indicates simple are easily broken down and they are easily absorbed in the blood. They are very easy for the body to digest and results in a rapid surge in blood sugar. A hormone named insulin is secreted by the pancreas for allowing the cells to consume glucose. Since they are very easily absorbed by cells, there is a sudden drop in glucose. Your brain cells that had a high energy source, have no longer their energy source available. This causes dizziness, shakiness, and weakness. It’s like you were zapped with an electric current and there is no longer any power left.
Are all carbohydrates bad and make you dizzy?
No! Not all carbohydrates are bad. As mentioned above, there is another type which is complex carbs which are found in whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. They pack a lot of nutrients and they are loaded with fiber which is not digested easily. They are considered good carbohydrates and provide lots of health benefits and aid in weight loss.
What happens with consuming complex carbohydrates?
As the name suggests, complex carbs are complex to break down and they are not easily absorbed by the body. The more complex the carbohydrates are, the more body works to break them down. This is why you feel full for a longer period and great for losing weight. They are also the best choice for type 2 diabetes patients as they regulate blood sugar spikes after eating. Fiber is a very important complex carb as it helps in bowel movement and reduces cholesterol.
How to eat simple carbs without feeling dizziness spells?
Yes, it’s possible to indulge in your cravings without feeling lightheadedness. The key is moderation by minimizing the consumption of sugar. There are other small but useful tips when consuming simple carbs.
- Try to stay in the recommended range. The recommended range for males is 36g and for females is 25g. Remember, moderation is the key.
- Never eat all the sugary treats in one go. Yes, the glazed donut or fudge brownie is calling your name but it doesn’t mean you have to eat it all at once. Space it out during the entire day and make it easy for your body not to go in a sugar rush.
- If you don’t other nutrients with sugar, you will regret it later. Balance your meal with all food groups like fiber, protein, and fats along with sugar, and you will feel fuller and satisfied without any energy spike.
Excess to everything is bad. If we work in balance then we won’t regret it ever.
