Postprandial hypoglycemia, also called reactive hypoglycemia, occurs in about 30 percent of young women, particularly in obese women under the age of 45 years old. Postprandial hypoglycemia is low blood sugar within four hours after eating. It is not caused by diabetes, nor does it cause diabetes, although the symptoms of hypoglycemia are the same.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
When your blood sugar levels drop, your body may not have the energy it needs. Your first warning sign of hypoglycemia might be hunger -- your brain signaling your body that it needs more fuel. Hunger, sweating, headache, irritability, shakiness, dizziness, fatigue, mood swings, confusion and anxiety are all signs of hypoglycemia. People with reactive hypoglycemia may have an overactive pancreas that releases too much insulin, leading to low levels of glucose. Stabilizing your blood sugar requires finding the proper balance between glucose and insulin.
Treating Postprandial Hypoglycemia
You'll need to eat to raise your glucose level. Fight the urge to reach for a quick carb fix, such as a candy bar or other sugary snack. You'll want to eat a combination of complex carbohydrate with protein and fat to avoid spiking your blood sugar. If you eat too many refined carbs, you run the risk of quickly raising your glucose level, only to have your pancreas flood your body with insulin again, causing another bout of hypoglycemia. Eating high-fiber carbs that gently raise your glucose level will help avoid having too much insulin in your bloodstream and starting the vicious circle all over again.
Preventing Postprandial Hypoglycemia
Reactive hypoglycemia generally doesn't call for medical attention or medication, but rather, simple dietary changes. Eating small meals often, about every three hours, will help to stabilize your glucose levels. Avoid sugary food, or carbs that will quickly raise your blood sugar, such as pasta, bread and potatoes -- especially on an empty stomach. Don't eat carbs by themselves, but always with fat and protein to help slow the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream. Limit your alcohol intake -- your body quickly converts alcohol to glucose.
Is Postprandial Hypoglycemia Dangerous?
Although postprandial low blood sugar may leave you feeling poorly, it doesn't necessarily lead to more serious health complications. However, if you have symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue and confusion, then everyday activities such as driving may become dangerous. If you often suffer from reactive hypoglycemia, make sure to keep healthy snacks, such as dried fruit and nuts, in the glove box of your car and in your desk at work.
Member Comments