Cravings and Your Mood: What Your Blood Sugar is Telling You
Do you ever find yourself snapping for no reason, desperate for a biscuit, or crashing on the sofa after dinner? It might feel like “just part of midlife,” but often it’s your blood sugar sending distress signals. But, with a few simple changes, you can steady your energy, calm cravings, and smooth out those mood swings.
Why Does This Matter
In midlife, changes in hormones make us more sensitive to blood sugar fluctuations. When blood sugar spikes (from too much refined carbohydrate or sugar), it then drops quickly, leaving you feeling tired, cranky, and reaching for the nearest snack. Over time, this rollercoaster can also increase the risk of weight gain and chronic conditions.
Balanced blood sugar = more consistent energy, better focus, improved mood, and fewer cravings.
Five Small Changes
Here’s how to keep your blood sugar (and mood) on a steadier track:
Pair carbs with protein: Instead of just toast, add eggs or nut butter. Instead of just fruit, add yoghurt or nuts.
Eat regularly: Skipping meals can backfire, aim for balanced meals every 3–4 hours.
Choose slow-release carbs: Swap white bread, pasta, and rice for wholegrain or non-starchy options like quinoa, oats, or sweet potato.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can feel like hunger or sugar cravings. Keep water close by all day.
Watch the evening treats: Late-night sugar or alcohol can disrupt sleep and trigger morning cravings.
This Week’s Challenge
This week, try pairing every carbohydrate you eat with a protein source. Notice how this one change impacts your cravings and energy levels.
Balancing blood sugar isn’t about perfection, it’s about giving your body the steady fuel it needs to thrive in midlife.