Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of glucose in the bloodstream. This is typically caused by excessive production of insulin by the pancreas, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." People with hypoglycemia may experience symptoms such as fatigue, depression, dizziness, headaches and anxiety. Some medical professionals believe that adjusting your diet can help stabilize glucose levels and reduce the symptoms of low blood sugar.
Nutritional therapy is not a replacement for medical attention. Talk to your doctor before changing your diet to combat the effects of hypoglycemia.
Whole Grain Diet
A diet rich in whole grains can help relieve dizziness, headaches and other symptoms of hypoglycemia. According to Roberta Ruggiero, author of "Do's and Don'ts of Hypoglycemia," white, refined flours can create glucose spikes, stimulating the production of insulin and triggering hypoglycemia symptoms. Refined flours are found in fast foods, prepackaged snacks, and white breads and pastas. A whole grain diet replaces refined flours with whole grains, which the body converts into glucose at a much slower rate. Also, whole grains such as wheat, barley, millet and brown rice are loaded with dietary fiber, which is thought to help regulate insulin production.
Vegetarian Diet
A vegetarian diet eliminates all types of meat and instead focuses on nutrient-dense plant foods. Most meats, including beef and pork, contain saturated fats that may interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. According to Dr. Balch, a vegetarian diet should include vegetables rich in dietary fiber, including broccoli, carrots, raw spinach and artichokes. You can use tofu, a food made from soybeans, as a meat replacement.
Low Glycemic Index Diet
A low glycemic index diet focuses on foods that cause the lowest increases in blood glucose levels, decreasing the body's dependence on insulin, notes Dr. Balch. This type of diet may include foods such as non-fat or low-fat yogurt, cherries, peanuts, grapefruit, apricots, chickpeas and lentils. It may also include starchy foods such as yams---but not potatoes, which are considered high-glycemic foods. Beverage choices include fat-free or skim milk, soy milk, apple juice and carrot juice.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D.; 1997
- "Do's and Don'ts of Hypoglycemia"; Roberta Ruggiero; 2003
