Anger is a natural feeling and response to something that we perceive as a threat. It’s often accompanied by physiological changes like an increase in heart rate and Adrenalin.
We might tense our muscles, clench our fists, or even lash out verbally or physically when we feel angry. All of these are perfectly normal reactions to feeling threatened. However, there are some cases where anger seems to be out of proportion to the situation or is difficult to control.
Everyone tends to lose their temper occasionally, but if you get angry more frequently, it could be due to one of these five substances.
Caffeine
It’s no secret that caffeine can make people more irritable. Too much caffeine can lead to jitters, anxiousness, and even panic attacks. When you experience these symptoms, it’s only natural to take them out on those around you.
You should try cutting back on your caffeine intake or remove it entirely if you find yourself getting angry more easily. You might need to experiment to find the right balance, but reducing your intake can help reduce your irritability.
Alcohol
While a drink or two can help you relax, too much alcohol can have the opposite effect. Alcohol is a depressant, and when you drink too much, it can lead to feelings of sadness and anger. If you’re drinking more than you should, it’s important to cut back. Not only will it help reduce your irritability, but it will also be better for your health in the long run.
Sugar
You might not think of sugar as a substance that can make you angry, but it can greatly impact your mood. When you eat sugar, your blood sugar levels spike and then crash, leaving you feeling tired, cranky, and irritable.
Reducing your intake of sugary foods and drinks can help reduce your irritability. Reducing the amount of artificial sugar you intake can also help reduce your chances of getting diseases like obesity and Type II diabetes.
Nicotine
Like caffeine, nicotine is a stimulant, and it can also make people more irritable. Nicotine causes the body to release adrenaline, which can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure. It can also cause anxiety and make it difficult to concentrate.
Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can help reduce your irritability. There are many resources available to help. You might be surprised at how much better you feel.
Illegal drugs
Illegal drugs can also cause irritability. People can use a wide variety of illegal drugs, but some are well-known to cause foul moods. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine can lead to anxiety and paranoia. Bath salt-type drugs can cause hallucinations, which can be terrifying and lead to angry outbursts.
It’s vital you find ways to quit using illegal drugs. Too much illegal drug use can lead to addiction, only worsening your irritability. There are many resources available to help you quit using illegal drugs, like professional treatment centers or 12-step programs.
If you’re struggling with irritability, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if a substance is causing your problem and provide resources to help you quit using it.
Reducing irritability can help improve your overall mood and make life more enjoyable. You don’t want to be known as someone constantly losing their cool, so you should find ways to control your anger. Start by examining your intake of these five substances and go from there.