Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, also commonly called low blood sugar, is when there is a lower then normal amount of the sugar glucose in the blood. People with both type I diabetes and type II diabetes are most at risk for this condition, but other can exhibit the symptoms due to the effects of disease or poor diets. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/hypoglycemia-000090.htm For diabetics, injections containing too much insulin or missing a meal can cause this condition. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include changes in mood, dizziness, loss of ability to concentrate, perspiration, pale skin, shallow breathing, anxiety, as well as other symptoms listed below. http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/hypoglycemia/ In severe cases, loss of consciousness and coma can occur. The cure can be as simple as ingesting a sugar cube or drinking a glass of fruit juice.

Diabetic diets that follow the glycemic index recommendations for foods that do not cause spikes of sugar in the bloodstream or a corresponding increase in insulin demand are recommended to help avoid the occurrence of hypoglycemia. Examples of diets in this category are the Mediterranean diet and the The New Glucose Revolution diet. In addition, research has demonstrated that both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia occurrence improves with relaxation training. At least one herb, ginseng has been shown useful in dealing with hypoglycemia when it is eaten with food; http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/asian-ginseng-000249.htm however, it can cause hypoglycemia in some. http://meded.ucsd.edu/isp/2003/thomas/herb_ginseng.html

On this site you will find a list of the symptoms and some suggestions for dealing with hypoglycemia, including dietary recommendations. Below you will find Google links related to hypoglycemia, Related Mahalo Links on the right side of the page, blogs and news sections. Ask a question if you have one, and look below for answers to previous questions.

1. Shakiness

2. Hunger and/or thirst

3. Anxiety

4. Confusion

5. Weakness

6. Sweating

7. Dizziness

8. Problems speaking

9. Tingling of the tongue http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7yDfk3Q-8g

10. Frequent urination http://www.mckinley.illinois.edu/handouts/pdfs/hyperglycemia.pdf

11. Seizure http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy885

1. Tachycardia (fast heart beat)

2. Low blood sugar levels - less than 70 mg/decaliter

3. Ketoacidosis - the breaking down of fats which forms ketones, which your body can't tolerate in large amounts

What you eat and drink affects the occurrence of hypoglycemia. The following recommendations regarding eating and drinking follow.

1. Alcohol intake can exacerbate hypoglycemia, particularly if you have an empty stomach.
2. Avoid caffeinated drinks.
3. Eat whole, fresh fruits. The fiber in the fruits will help slow the absorption of sugars.
4. Choose foods that have a low glycemic index. Mimic your diet after plans such as the South Beach Diet, The New Glucose Revolution Diet, or the Zone Diet.
5. Reduce your fat intake. Replace these calories with foods that have complex carbohydrates which take longer for the digestive system to break down.
6. Increasing your fiber intake will decrease the rate of sugar absorption in your digestive system.
7. It is best to eat more frequently and to eat less each time. Between main meals, have a healthy snack.
8. Stay away from any food that has a high amount of simple sugars, such as soft drinks and breads. If you do eat these, eat small portions. Breads should be whole grain preferably for the fiber content. http://olin.msu.edu/hypoglycemia.php

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Hypoglycemia, please consult your doctor.