When blood sugar spikes and crashes, so does everything else—mood, energy, decision-making. Research by Ludwig found high-glycemic meals cause blood sugar to crash four hours later, with increased hunger and craving activation. The brain’s prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control, is especially vulnerable. “Hangry” has research support.
This companion covers the glucose- brain connection, the spike-crash cycle, mood and irritability effects, and practical ways to stabilize blood sugar. (3 min read)