Hypoglycemia -- often referred to as low blood sugar -- is a condition that occurs when the amount of glucose in your blood drops below healthy levels. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue and anxiety that can interfere with your day-to-day life. Eating the best foods for a hypoglycemic diet is integral to staving off these symptoms, as well as providing your body with energy and essential nutrients.
Grains and Carbohydrates
Foods rich in carbohydrates are among the best to eat in a hypoglycemic diet, since they are a key source of glucose, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. These foods include meal staples such as brown rice, unrefined pasta, whole wheat bread, granola and wheat germ. Incorporating carbohydrates into a hypoglycemic diet will keep your blood glucose at a healthy level.
Protein-rich Foods
Dietary sources of protein including lentils, lean red meat, poultry and fish are essential components of a hypoglycemic diet. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some doctors recommend eating plenty of protein to maintain a stable level of blood glucose. Eating nutritious foods rich in protein can help prevent hypoglycemia-related symptoms, although you should avoid less optimal protein sources such as processed meats and fast-food burgers. The fatty acids contained in these foods are not only unhealthy, but they can impede maintenance of proper blood glucose levels.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are not only rich in nutrients, they also are some of the best options for providing necessary glucose to your body. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends antioxidant-rich dietary fruits such as raspberries and blueberries, and vegetables including squash and bell peppers. Other vegetables such as broccoli and romaine lettuce make for solid choices for a hypoglycemic diet due to their high content of essential iron and vitamin B-12.
Quick Snacks and Beverages
Although it is often difficult to fit in a meal during the busiest hours of your day, the NDIC reports that it is important to keep quick snacks and beverages handy to help you avoid symptoms of hypoglycemia that can make your day even more hectic. A small apple, several pieces of hard candy or a tablespoon of honey are among the best, most convenient fast-fix snacks for hypoglycemia. You can also drink beverages such as a half cup of any fruit juice or a cup of milk to maintain a healthy hypoglycemic diet during busy hours of the day.
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