It's important to avoid hunger at work
Experts have established a strange pattern: as soon as a worker misses a meal, his mood deteriorates dramatically. Patience disappears, little things start to irritate, and concentration drops.
This state has received a separate name among researchers – “hangry” (from hungry and angry), that is, anger on the background of hunger. And this is not just an everyday observation, but quite explainable from the point of view of physiology, experts say.
What happens in the body when we are hungry
The main “fuel” for the brain is glucose. It enters the body with food and ensures the normal functioning of the nervous system. When glucose levels drop:
– the brain signals a lack of energy;
– the areas associated with emotions and inner feelings are activated;
– sensitivity to stress and external stimuli is increased.
It is important to realize that irritability is not only caused by a drop in blood sugar. Awareness of hunger plays a big role, writes RTÉ. As soon as we start to feel a lack of energy and interpret it as discomfort, the emotional response increases.
Children are more likely to show an abrupt response to hunger. Their bodies use up energy faster and their preoccupation with play prevents them from noticing body signals. The result is sudden crying, crankiness or outbursts of anger.
But adults react in a similar way, they just show it differently: they become impatient, sharp in communication, worse able to cope with tasks and faster tired.
How to prevent “hunger anger”
In order not to fall into the trap of sharp mood swings, it is worth adhering to a few simple principles:
Regularity of meals.
Do not allow long breaks between meals. Even a small snack can stabilize energy levels.
Attention to body signals.
Empty stomach, slight weakness, decreased concentration – these are early signs that are best not to ignore.
Movement and regimen.
Physical activity helps to maintain a stable metabolism and positively affects the emotional background.
Planning.
Keep healthy snacks on hand, especially on busy days or when traveling.
Irritability amid hunger is not a weakness of character, but a natural reaction of the body to a lack of energy. If you learn to recognize your body’s signals in time and follow your eating habits, you can stay calm, clear-headed and productive throughout the day.
The main thing is not to bring yourself to a state where an empty stomach begins to control your emotions.
