Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia, a condition that causes abnormally low levels of glucose in the body, can be caused by factors such as genetics, diet, alcohol use and liver disease. Common symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, irritability, depression and insomnia, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." These symptoms may be triggered by the release of adrenaline into the bloodstream, notes the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website. There are also certain foods that may help control the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Nutritional therapy is not designed to replace medical treatment for hypoglycemia. People with this condition should consult a doctor before beginning a nutritional regimen to combat the symptoms of low blood sugar.
Alcohol
Alcohol use is a common cause of hypoglycemia, but it can also trigger symptoms in people with this condition, according to the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website. Alcohol is converted to glucose by the body, and symptoms such as fatigue and anxiety quickly follow.
Chocolate
Chocolate and other foods and beverages that contain caffiene can exacerbate the effects of hypoglycemia. According to the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website, caffeine stimulates the production of adrenaline, which can cause or worsen low blood sugar symptoms. Caffeine can also trigger rapid swings in blood glucose levels.
Fatty Foods
A low-fat diet may help control the dizziness, irritability and fatigue associated with hypoglycemia. According to Dr. Balch, people with low blood sugar should avoid foods that are high in fat, such as whole milk, cheese, cottage cheese and yogurt. Other high-fat foods to avoid include bacon, fried foods, sausage, ham and gravy. Lean meats, low-fat or fat-free dairy products and eggs may be used as replacement protein sources in moderation.
Sugars and Refined Flour
Hypoglycemia symptoms are triggered by donuts and other processed foods that contain large amounts of sugars and refined flours. White flour, which is a simple carbohydrate, is quickly converted into glucose by the body. This causes an energy spike quickly followed by a "crash." People with hypoglycemia should opt for foods that contain whole grains instead of refined flour, and which contain less than 5g of sugar per serving.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, MD; 1997
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Hypoglycemia
