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Low glucose levels in the body can cause bouts of aggression
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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A group of researchers from one of the universities in Ohio came to the conclusion that low blood glucose levels lead to anger and irritation. In the course of their research project, the scientists analyzed the relationships of more than a hundred married couples, who at the beginning of the study had to answer several questions, including a question about family relationships. Then, for three weeks, the scientists monitored the blood sugar levels of the study participants, and also monitored the degree of irritation of the spouses towards their other half.
To find out the level of anger and irritation of the participants, the scientists gave each of them dolls that personified their other half and suggested that when they were irritated with their spouse, they stick needles into the doll. As it turned out, those participants in the study who had low glucose levels had twice as many needles stuck into the dolls as those with higher blood glucose levels. At the same time, even spouses who had good relationships had the same results.
Hungry and angry – this is how the research group named the state of people. Scientists note that this kind of hungry state, associated with possible aggressive behavior, is often ignored, but such a state can cause serious family conflicts and sometimes domestic violence.
Based on the data obtained, experts recommend not to have serious conversations on an empty stomach. You can restore the blood glucose level by eating a chocolate bar or candy. Fruits and vegetables help to normalize the glucose level even better.
However, as in any other case, it is important not to overdo it. To reduce the manifestation of conflict situations in the family, it is not at all necessary to eat a lot of sweets and chocolate. Sugar can also be dangerous to health. Recent research by scientists has shown that high concentrations of sugar in the blood have a negative effect on memory (provided that there is no diabetes).
In their research project, the specialists studied the health of more than a hundred volunteers who did not suffer from glucose intolerance, diabetes, or prediabetes. The scientists also excluded people who were overweight, alcohol dependent, or had brain dysfunction. The brain health of the participants in the experiment was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The scientists were able to determine the size of the hippocampus (the area that forms emotions and consolidates information received in memory). The scientists also measured blood sugar levels and conducted various memory tests, for example, asking the participants to repeat a list of words they heard 10-15 minutes ago.
As a result, those participants who had low blood sugar successfully completed the tasks. Participants whose glycated hemoglobin in the blood was within 7 mmol showed almost twice as poor memorability, and their hippocampus was smaller.
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