Why Sweet Foods Make Me Feel Sick: Unexplained Reactions

Whenever I consume sweet foods, I experience discomfort in my body?

Hello, I have a question to ask.
In the past, I didn't experience this, but for the last two years, whenever I consume foods or drinks that are mildly sweet or sweeter, I have difficulty breathing, break out in a cold sweat, feel nauseous, and sometimes feel faint to the point where I need to lie down and rest.
However, there are some sweet foods that I can eat without any issues, like donuts, which don't make me feel unwell.
I initially thought I might have some illness, but my school health check-ups have all been normal.
I'm unsure if there's something wrong with my body.
Currently, I can only drink mineral water and low-fat milk; full-fat milk and soy milk make me feel nauseous, sweaty, and dizzy.
In the past, I could eat sweet foods, even chocolate, without feeling unwell, but now I almost dare not eat anything sweet because of the dizziness and nausea, which is really uncomfortable.
It even feels like there's pressure in my head, which is distressing.
I wonder if this is a psychological issue or if there is something physically wrong with me? (I don't dislike sweet foods, but now I'm afraid to eat them.) Thank you.

chisaki, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/07

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine

Physiological diseases may not be like this, but issues related to specific constitutions are difficult to determine.

Reply Date: 2005/09/07

More Info

Experiencing adverse reactions to sweet foods can be perplexing and distressing. Your symptoms, which include difficulty breathing, cold sweats, nausea, and dizziness after consuming sweet foods or beverages, warrant careful consideration. While your school health checks have returned normal results, the nature of your symptoms suggests that there may be underlying physiological or psychological factors at play.

Firstly, it is essential to differentiate between a physiological response and a psychological one. Your body’s reaction to sweet foods could be indicative of a food intolerance or sensitivity. Food intolerances can manifest in various ways, including gastrointestinal distress, headaches, and even neurological symptoms such as dizziness. For instance, some individuals may have difficulty metabolizing certain sugars, such as fructose or sucrose, leading to symptoms when these sugars are consumed in significant amounts.
Another possibility is that you may be experiencing a form of reactive hypoglycemia. This condition occurs when blood sugar levels drop significantly after consuming sugary foods, leading to symptoms like dizziness, sweating, and nausea. It is also worth considering that your body might be reacting to specific ingredients commonly found in sweet foods, such as artificial sweeteners or preservatives, which can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.

On the psychological side, it is possible that your experiences have led to a conditioned response. If you have had a particularly unpleasant experience after consuming sweet foods, your brain may have formed a negative association with these foods, leading to anticipatory anxiety and physical symptoms when you encounter them again. This phenomenon is not uncommon and can lead to avoidance behaviors, where you begin to fear foods that previously did not cause any issues.

Additionally, your mention of feeling nauseous and dizzy after consuming full-fat dairy products and soy milk suggests that there may be a broader sensitivity to certain food groups or components, such as lactose or soy proteins. This could further complicate your dietary choices and contribute to your overall discomfort.

To address your concerns, it would be advisable to keep a detailed food diary, noting what you eat and any symptoms that arise afterward. This can help identify patterns and potential triggers. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a gastroenterologist or an allergist, may provide further insights. They can conduct tests to rule out food allergies, intolerances, or other gastrointestinal issues.

In the meantime, it may be beneficial to gradually reintroduce sweet foods in small amounts while monitoring your body's reactions. This approach can help you determine if there are specific types of sweet foods that you can tolerate without adverse effects. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, may help manage any anxiety associated with eating.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe underlying health condition, they are certainly significant enough to warrant further investigation. Understanding the root cause of your reactions—whether they are physiological, psychological, or a combination of both—will be crucial in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.

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