A funny thing happens sometimes when a meal is delayed. Maybe the shopping took a little longer than planned, the waiter seemed to be taking his sweet time, or the hours simply rushed by faster than expected. Whatever the circumstance, the result is always the same: we get “hangry.” This can happen when our blood sugar is low.

If you aren’t one of the cursed people who suffer from this unfortunate condition, “hangry” refers to a person becoming angry or irritable when hungry. While it may sound humorous, the condition actually has a scientific explanation.

Blood sugar.

Blood Sugar And Why It’s Important

Blood sugar refers to the amount of glucose in your bloodstream at any given time. Unless you have diabetes, it’s pretty likely that you haven’t had a second thought about your blood sugar ever in your life. But whether or not you are conscious of the fact, imbalanced blood sugar levels can affect your body, your mood, and even your brain.

Some common symptoms of your blood sugar being out of whack are:

• Shaky hands
• Weakness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sweating
• A quick heartbeat
• Hunger

If you do suffer from hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, you have probably become extremely familiar with these symptoms. But for everyone else, you may be surprised that you too have suffered many of the symptoms from time to time!

Keeping your blood sugar levels balanced can help you prevent long-term health issues, keep a healthy weight, and just help you feel good in general.

10 Natural Ways To Manage Blood Sugar Levels

The good news is, not everyone needs medication to help regulate their blood sugar levels. There are many natural things you can do to keep your blood sugar in check, without needing to visit your doctor.

1. Balanced Diet

One great way to control your blood sugar levels is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. If you are constantly feeding your body sugary treats, processed snacks, and fast foods, your blood sugar will rise and fall like a roller coaster. (2)

2. Eat These Magic Foods

Okay, so these foods aren’t actually magic, but they certainly work like it. Foods with a low glycemic index such as the following have proven to help keep your blood sugar at a healthy level. (3)

• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Greens
• Oranges
• Apples
• Whole Grains
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Milk
• Yogurt (4)

3. Drink Up!

Not staying hydrated can drop your blood sugar levels, so keep that water bottle handy!

4. Physical Activity

Regular exercise increases insulin sensitivity, which means your insulin is better able to use the glucose in your bloodstream.

5. Take Control Of Mealtimes

Watching your portions and making sure to eat fixed meals every day is a great way to be sure that your body is getting the glucose it needs, no more and no less.

6. Let Go Of Stress

The more stress in your life, the higher your blood sugar levels. Finding time to breathe and relax can help you better manage them.

7. Healthy Bodyweight

There is a direct correlation between weight and risk for diabetes. Maintaining a healthy body weight is one way you can keep your blood sugar working properly.

8. Watch Carbs

Low carb diets have shown to improve glucose levels in the body. As an extra bonus, you may also be able to lose some weight in the meantime!

9. More Fiber

Soluble fiber can help prevent blood sugar spikes after meals and snacks.

10. Getting Good Sleep

Sleep does more than recharge your battery! Sleep can regulate your hormones, which in turn helps regulate your blood sugar.

Conclusion

Who knew there was so much you could do to keep your blood sugar balanced? Try one or all of these tips to make sure your body has just the right amount of glucose, and get rid of those awful hangry times!