Advertisement
question

Can sugar cause heart palpitations?

Donna Hill Howes, RN
Donna Hill Howes, RN
Family Practitioner
answer

Palpitations are often caused by consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and decongestants. Tobacco use can also cause palpitations. Sugar consumption in most people does not cause palpitations. However, if a person has low blood sugar episodes, consumption of too much simple sugar can cause a strong insulin (insulin helps move glucose into cells to be used for energy) response and drop the blood sugar too rapidly. This results in a reaction of the body similar to stress. The heart rate will increase, the person will be shaky, clammy and feel faint.

Diabetics have also reported palpitations if their blood sugar is too high.

Continue Learning about Heart and Circulatory System

Staying the course on your coronary artery disease treatment
Staying the course on your coronary artery disease treatment
It sounds simple enough on paper: When you have a chronic condition like coronary artery disease (also known as CAD), it’s important to take your medi...
Read More
Should you worry when your heart “skips a beat”?
Should you worry when your heart “skips a beat”?
If you sometimes feel like your heart “skips a beat”—even when you’re simply drifting off to sleep—it may seem like cause for alarm. The truth is, you...
Read More
Do you need to see an electrophysiologist?
Do you need to see an electrophysiologist?
A variety of problems can affect the heart’s size, shape and how well it’s able to function. These conditions range from high blood pressure and high ...
Read More
How is the heart designed?
Heart is a muscular organ, roughly the size of your fist. Learn more from our experts about the part...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.