Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is a frightful condition for those who are asleep and unable to seek help. Upon waking, signs that the blood sugar dropped throughout the night include headaches, sweaty pj's and sheets and frequent nightmares, notes Joslin Diabetes Center. Experiencing dizziness, sweating, pallor or confusion before bed may be warning signs that the blood sugar is already dropping and will continue to do so during sleep . Avoiding certain snacks before bedtime may stop those lows throughout the night, regardless of diabetes, poor eating habits or hypoglycemia sufferers.
Simple Sugars
Have the cup of tea but skip the honey. Simple sugars, such as sugar, honey and fruits can impact the blood sugar during sleep. Devoid of any sustaining protein or fats, these simple sugars cause a brief jump in the blood sugar followed by low blood sugars throughout the night. Fruits and fruit juices, such as bananas or apple juice, should be excluded from the bedtime snack repertoire. Junk foods, such as colas or candies, will have the same lowering impact on blood sugar during sleep.
Alcohol
A snifter of brandy or a few ounces of wine may help induce sleep for some, but are not a good idea for those worried about low nighttime blood sugars. The American Diabetes Association remarks that alcohol can impact the blood sugar for up to 12 hours after consumption. During sleep, the liver's primary job is to restore the body's supply of glucose, the simple sugar that feeds the brain and body. When alcohol is used before bed, the liver must work to flush it from the body and therefore cannot focus on creating the necessary sugar storage for the next day.
Bread and Granola
A bowl of cereal is a great start to the day but should be avoided at bedtime. Similar to refined sugars and carbs, complex carbohydrates, unless paired with some peanut butter or nuts, have minimal protein and fat content. These foods are rapidly digested and absorbed by the body, leading to a decline in blood sugar as the night progresses. Toast, bagels, cereals -- especially those with sweeteners, pasta and granolas are all complex carbohydrates that will adversely impact blood sugars.
