Low blood sugar, also referred to as low blood glucose or hypoglycemia, occurs when blood glucose levels fall below normal levels. Glucose comes from food, mainly carbohydrates such as breads, rice, potatoes and cereal, as well as milk products, fruits and products made from table sugar. When glucose levels drop, a hormone called glucagon signals the liver to release stored glucose or glycogen. In some people with diabetes, glucagon is impaired, making it difficult for glucose levels to return to normal. The purpose of this diet is to prevent symptoms of low blood sugar from occurring.
Breads and Grains
Choose high-fiber breads and bread products to help slow down the absorption of glucose in the bloodstream. Good choices include enriched or whole-grain breads, rolls, crackers, rice, cereals and pasta, as well as pretzels and popcorn. Avoid simple carbohydrates or concentrated sweets with added sugar such as pastries, cookies, cakes and bakery muffins.
Milk and Milk Products
High-fat milk products such as whole milk, ice cream, milkshakes, cheese and other products made with whole milk or cream should be avoided. Choose fat-free or low-fat dairy products such as skim or low-fat milk, non-fat or low-fat yogurts and puddings made with sugar substitute, and low-fat cheeses.
Meats
Fats that are found in meat should also be limited. Avoid fatty meats such as hot dogs, bacon and fried meats. Choose leaner meat options such as lean beef and poultry, seafood, beans, nuts and low-fat peanut butter. Also limit eggs to no more than four egg yolks per week.
Vegetables
Avoid vegetables with glazes or sauces that contain added sugar or fats. Also avoid vegetables that are deep-fried, such as french fries or onion rings. All other vegetables, both raw and cooked, are acceptable on the diet.
Fruits
Avoid any canned fruit with added sugar. Instead choose fresh fruits or fruits that are canned in their own juice or water sweetened with sugar substitute. Eating the fruit is recommended over drinking fruit juice because of the whole fruit's fiber.
Beverages
Alcohol and caffeine should be limited or avoided. Choose decaffeinated coffee, tea and diet sodas. Also choose fruit juice that is unsweetened or is sweetened with sugar substitute.
Fats and Oils
Saturated and trans fats should be limited. Avoid shortening and coconut oil. Instead choose unsaturated vegetables oils such as corn, safflower, sesame, soybean, sunflower, peanut, canola or olive, and also choose products made from these oils.
