Experiencing Shaking and Discomfort
Every other day, when I abstain from sugar, I find myself grappling with severe shaking accompanied by nausea, a sensation of overheating, shortness of breath, and an overwhelming urge to faint. My family has a history of diabetes, leading me to wonder if this might be linked to my symptoms, but I’m uncertain. As an 18-year-old female standing 5’2”, I consider myself generally healthy.
Answers (1)

9/15/2025, 4:20:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort when you abstain from sugar, with symptoms that could indicate a reaction to changes in your blood sugar levels. Let’s break this down to understand it better.
Summary of Main Points:
- Your symptoms may be related to blood sugar changes, especially since you have a family history of diabetes.
- The shaking, nausea, overheating, and shortness of breath could indicate low blood sugar or withdrawal from sugar.
Explanation:
When you consume sugar regularly and then suddenly stop, your body may react strongly due to its dependence on glucose for energy. This can trigger symptoms like shaking, nausea, and faint feelings, which can feel quite severe. Given your family history of diabetes, it's important to note that your body's ability to regulate blood sugar could be a bit different.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Diet: Instead of going cold turkey on sugar, try reducing your intake gradually. Swap out high-sugar foods for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This may help your body adjust without severe reactions.
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Stay Hydrated and Eat Regularly: Make sure you’re drinking enough fluids and eating regular meals that include a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This can help stabilize your blood sugar levels.
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a log of when these episodes occur, what you ate prior, and any other activities. This might help pinpoint triggers and patterns.
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Seek Support from Family: Share your experiences with a family member. They might provide insights from their own experiences or help monitor your situation.
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Consider Gradual Sugar Reduction: If you want to reduce sugar for health reasons, do so slowly over weeks to allow your body to adjust. Gradual changes can help reduce withdrawal-like symptoms.
If your episodes persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs. Remember, you are taking a positive step by seeking answers, and there are ways to manage your symptoms effectively.
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