Hypoglycemia is a condition where an individual experiences symptoms related to low blood sugar including dizziness, fatigue and irritation. Reactive hypoglycemia is a form of hypoglycemia which tends to be less diagnosed than the form tested through fasting blood sugar levels. It has more to do with the effect of food on blood sugar two to three hours after food has been consumed. Diet plays an important role in stabilizing reactive hypoglycemia, along with other forms of hypoglycemia, and should focus on high-protein and low-carbohydrate foods.
Identification
The term "reactive hypoglycemia" refers to how the body reacts after a meal. The way the body responds in terms of blood sugar is dependent on what foods are eaten, what time of the day they are consumed and how much stress the body is experiencing. Blood sugar levels may be normal when fasting, and so the body overreacts when food is eaten, causing too much insulin to be produced with a subsequent drop in blood sugar. Those who suffer from reactive hypoglycemia usually react negatively to sugar and simple starches, as the body cannot handle the excess sugar load.
Significance
Diet plays a very important role in dealing with the symptoms of reactive hypoglycemia. This form of hypoglycemia often triggers fatigue, malaise, nervousness, irritability, trembling, tension, headaches and hunger. Cold sweats and a rapid heart rate are also signs. If the diet remains focused on high-sugar and high-carbohydrate foods, these symptoms often worsen and may lead to diabetes or even brain damage in the long term. Removing these foods and replacing them with low-carbohydrate, protein-rich foods often reduces symptoms in a short period of time.
Type
A reactive hypoglycemia diet includes several important factors. According to Michael Zimmermann in the book, "Pocket Guide to Micronutrients in Health and Disease," simple sugars and refined carbohydrates such as white bread and white rice should be avoided. Foods high in complex carbohydrates like vegetables, legumes, oats and whole grains should be eaten instead. Low-glycemic foods such as meat, nuts and lentils are very good for the blood sugar. Meals should be spaced out at even intervals throughout the day, the optimal being five to six small meals a day. Avoid large amounts of caffeine and alcohol, which dramatically affect reactive hypoglycemia.
Time Frame
The time frame to see improvement of symptoms related to reactive hypoglycemia depends on the individual. In "Sugar Shock! How Sweets And Simple Carbs Can Derail Your Life" by Connie Bennett, she notes a woman who began to feel better within days of eating a low-carbohydrate diet after 20 years of experiencing symptoms. It may take longer for some, but most individuals normally see improvement within a month's time.
Considerations
Reactive hypoglycemia can eventually lead to diabetes, so it is important to work closely with a health care practitioner to determine the best dieting and lifestyle practices. An at-home blood sugar measuring kit may also be helpful. Also, a drastic change in diet may lead to an exacerbation of symptoms for a few days, but this normally subsides quickly.
References
- "Hypoglycemia for Dummies"; Cheryl Chow and James Chow, M.D.; 2007
- "Professional Guide to Diseases"; Lippincott Williams; 2008
- "Pocket Guide to Micronutrients in Health and Disease"; Michael Zimmermann; 2001
- "Sugar Shock!: How Sweets And Simple Carbs Can Derail Your Life"; Connie Bennett; 2006
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