Tired, Moody, and Craving Sugar? You Need to Address Your Blood Sugar
Blood sugar imbalances don’t just affect those with diabetes—many people experience them for years or even decades without realizing it. Type 2 diabetes is a late-stage manifestation of prolonged blood sugar issues and insulin resistance, but the good news is that we have a significant amount of control over whether or not we develop this condition and our overall well-being.
Signs You May Have Blood Sugar Imbalances
Imbalanced blood sugar can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:
Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and other mood disorders
Poor sleep or waking frequently
Fatigue
Headaches, especially those relieved by eating
Poor cognitive function, such as brain fog or difficulty focusing
Reduced exercise performance
Unexplained weight gain
Sugar and carb cravings
Dizziness, shakiness or feeling jittery between meals
Irritability or feeling "hangry"
Excessive thirst
Frequent urination
Hormonal imbalances, including irregular cycles and PCOS
Skin issues such as acne or dry skin
Weakened immune function and frequent illness
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
If you experience several of these symptoms, your blood sugar may not be as stable as it should be, but for many people this can be quickly and easily improved!
Steps to Balance Your Blood Sugar Naturally
The first and most crucial step in stabilizing blood sugar is focusing on your diet. The way you eat, what you eat, and when you eat all impact your blood sugar levels. Here’s how to support balanced blood sugar through nutrition:
Focus on Macronutrient Balance
Each meal and snack should include:
Protein: Helps slow down glucose absorption and promotes satiety
Healthy Fats: Supports hormone production and stabilizes energy levels
Fiber: Slows digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes
Make Smart Carbohydrate Choices
Carbohydrates are not the enemy, but they should be consumed wisely:
Avoid naked carbs (carbs eaten alone). Always pair them with protein, fat, and fiber.
Choose complex carbs like sweet potatoes or quinoa and combine them with protein and healthy fats.
Eliminate or reduce refined sugars, refined grains, and refined oils.
Stick to three balanced meals per day and avoid excessive snacking.
Be mindful of fasting—women, in particular, should optimize their fasting schedule to support hormonal balance, as fasting is a natural stressor on the body. (Read this post to learn how to fast optimally for women’s health!)
Support Liver Health with a Practitioner-Directed Detox
A well-structured liver detox can be an excellent tool to help clear toxins and reset metabolic function. Unlike a simple juice cleanse or detox supplement, a proper, practitioner-led liver detox supports:
Blood sugar balance
Improved mood and mental clarity
Increased energy
Enhanced digestion
Weight loss
Sleep
Hormone balance (PMS, PCOS, perimenopause & menopause)
Anti-aging
How to Properly Assess Your Blood Sugar Levels
If you suspect blood sugar imbalances, proper testing can be very helpful.
Fasting Insulin:
Measures insulin levels in the blood, which can help detect insulin resistance before blood sugar becomes elevated.
Hemoglobin A1C Test:
This test, available through your medical doctor or with our team at Winnipeg Nutrition, assesses blood sugar trends over the past three months and provides a more accurate picture of long-term glucose control than a standard glucose test.
3. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM):
A CGM allows you to track your blood sugar in real time over a minimum of 14 days, offering valuable insights into how your diet, stress levels, sleep, and daily habits impact your glucose levels.
Take Control of Your Blood Sugar Today
If you struggle with energy crashes, mood swings, cravings, or unexplained weight gain, your blood sugar might be at the root of the issue. Book a consultation with one of our holistic nutritionists to get personalized support in balancing your blood sugar and optimizing your health.
