Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when blood glucose levels fall below the normal range. Hypoglycemia can happen suddenly but can be treated quickly by eating or drinking a small amount of food or drink containing glucose. To relieve hypoglycemia, health professionals recommend being physically active and eating small, frequent meals, including a variety of foods such as meats, beans, starchy whole grain foods, fruits, vegetables and dairy products.
Step 1
Prepare well-balanced meals or snacks that contain whole-grain carbohydrates, lean meats and vegetables. Dairy products, fruits and fruit juices contain carbohydrate and should be consumed in smaller portions. Avoid fatty or deep fried meats. Choose enriched or whole-grain bread products such as unsweetened cereals, whole grain pastas, crackers and rice. Avoid canned fruits that are sweetened with heavy syrup. Choose low-fat dairy products such as non-fat yogurt, low-fat or fat-free milk and cheeses. Avoid vegetables sweetened with glazes.
Step 2
Limit foods or meals high in concentrated sweets, such as regular soda, honey, syrups, jams, candies and desserts. Avoid or limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day. Limit caffeine to one to two cups per day.
Step 3
Aim for three balanced meals a day with an evening snack. A snack containing protein and a starch, such as peanut butter and crackers or 1 oz. of cheese or 1/2 cup milk and crackers is suitable. If symptoms are not relieved, adjust the size and frequency of meals. Eat small, frequent meals and snacks about every three hours or leave a gap of no more than four hours between meals.
Tips and Warnings
- Sweeteners or foods made with sweeteners may be used in a hypoglycemia diet. Reduce excess weight by being physically active. A snack may be necessary before exercise if taking insulin or oral medications for diabetes.
- Physical activity can cause blood glucose levels to drop, so consult a health care provider before starting an exercise regimen.
Things You'll Need
- Food diary
- Blood sugar dairy
- Exercise log
- Symptoms log
