Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose levels dip too far below normal. It occurs most often in association with diabetes, but it's possible to suffer hypoglycemic episodes without being diabetic. When hypoglycemia occurs without diabetes being a factor, it is usually a symptom of a larger medical problem. When hypoglycemia occurs, it's important to get blood glucose levels back to normal as quickly as possible through medication or by ingesting certain foods. If you suffer from hypoglycemic episodes, your diet can play an important role in preventing it.
The Function of Glucose
Glucose provides the main source of energy for the cells in the body and comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates. Carbohydrate-containing foods include breads, rice, pasta, milk, vegetables and fruit. After carbohydrates are broken down by digestive enzymes, glucose is absorbed into the bloodstream. Insulin is released from the pancreas to let glucose enter the cells. When there is more glucose in the bloodstream than the cells can use, the excess is stored in the liver as glycogen. The liver releases glycogen as need for extra energy when glucose levels get lower between meals.
Causes of Hypoglycemia
Diabetes is the most common cause of hypoglycemia, usually in reaction to administration of too much insulin or other diabetes medications. Some diseases and eating a poor diet can also cause hypoglycemia. Organic hypoglycemia is due to certain diseases, such as liver disease, alcoholism, adrenal hormone dysfunction and insulinoma, a rare tumor of the pancreas. Organic hypoglycemia typically requires medical treatment, medication or surgery to correct. Reactive hypoglycemia occurs one to three hours after eating and responds well to changes in diet.
Reactive Hypoglycemia
Although most cases of hypoglycemia occur in relation to fasting, reactive hypoglycemia occurs in conjunction with eating, usually one to three hours after a meal. It can be difficult to diagnose and is typically identified after all other causes have been eliminated. In reactive hypoglycemia, the body reacts differently to the digestion of food. Following digestion, blood sugar levels rise dramatically and the pancreas overreacts, releasing too much insulin, causing glucose levels to drop rapidly. The symptoms include shaking, sweating, blurred vision, slurred speech and heart palpitations. If left untreated it can result in loss of consciousness, seizures and death.
The Importance of Diet
The most important factor in avoiding hypoglycemic episodes is to keep blood glucose levels stable. The frequency and composition of all your daily meals matter greatly. Eat three balanced meals, along with three daily snacks at mid-morning, afternoon and evening to achieve this. Protein and complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, beans, vegetables and cereals, should form the basis of most meals. Sugary and refined foods should be avoided, being replaced with fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks and dessert. Limit fats by choosing low-fat dairy, lean protein and substitute olive oil for butter in cooking.
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