Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is characterized by low blood glucose levels. This condition may be caused by genetic abnormalities, stress or overdependence on processed flours and sugars, caffeine or alcohol, according to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Irritability, fatigue, insomnia, depression and nervousness are all common symptoms of hypoglycemia. Dieting with hypoglycemia involves choosing healthy foods that are least likely to trigger blood sugar fluctuations.
Hypoglycemics should check with a doctor before beginning a diet regimen.
Step 1
Eat five to six small meals per day instead of three large meals, advises the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website. Eating smaller, more frequent meals helps regulate glucose levels in the blood. This can help reduce fatigue and energy "crashes" associated with hypoglycemia.
Step 2
Avoid sugary snacks such as doughnuts, candy bars and pastries, as well as prepackaged meals. These items are typically high in refined sugars and white flour, which are quickly turned into glucose by the body's digestive system, according to Dr. Balch. Also, glucose that is not used as energy is stored by the body as fat, which can hamper weight loss efforts.
Step 3
Include foods that contain high levels of dietary fiber. According to the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website, dietary fiber helps slow the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose, which can help prevent rapid glucose fluctuations. It also expands in the digestive system, which can help prevent excessive food consumption by making the stomach feel full more quickly. Whole grains, brown rice and vegetables are rich sources of dietary fiber.
Step 4
Avoid alcohol, which can cause or worsen the symptoms of hypoglycemia, according to Dr. Balch. Alcoholic beverages are also high in calories, which can make dieting with hypoglycemia more difficult.
Step 5
Limit saturated fats, which are found in eggs, dairy products and red meats. According to the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website, a diet low in saturated fats may help prevent blood glucose fluctuations and reduce the symptoms of hypoglycemia. A low-fat diet may also augment weight-loss efforts.
Step 6
Eat avocados to help manage hypoglycemia symptoms. According to Dr. Balch, avocados contain a complex sugar that may prevent excessive insulin production, which may help avoid energy "crashes."
Things You'll Need
- Fiber-rich foods
- Avocados
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis Balch, CNC.; 1997
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Hypoglycemia
