If you experience episodes of anxiety and irritability, blurred vision, excessive sweating and mental confusion along with headaches, you might be suffering from hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is common in the general population, and the term refers to a temporary drop in blood sugar. Glucose is the main fuel for the brain, and any significant drop in blood levels may alter normal brain function, leading to symptoms. Diet plays a significant role in the maintenance of blood sugar levels, and it is the primary naturopathic therapy tool considered in cases of hypoglycemia.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and can be categorized as simple and complex. Naturally occurring simple carbohydrates provide vitamins and minerals and include fruit, dairy products and vegetables. Complex carbohydrates are made up of starchy vegetables, legumes and whole-grain products, such as breads and pasta. In general, moderate amounts of simple carbohydrates are well-tolerated by hypoglycemics, especially if they are balanced by healthy servings of complex carbohydrates and protein. Refined or processed simple carbohydrates, such as white flour breads and pastries, sweets, table sugar and sodas are devoid of vitamins and minerals, lead to unhealthy rises in blood sugar and should be avoided by anyone suffering from hypoglycemia.
Fiber
According to Dr. Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr. in "The Textbook of Natural Medicine," blood sugar disorders can be traced to an inadequate daily consumption of fiber. Fiber can be found in fruit, vegetables, whole wheat, oats, legumes, nuts and seeds. Fiber slows digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, allowing the body to maintain even levels of blood sugar. Fiber also improves cellular uptake of glucose by the body, preventing sustained levels of high blood sugar. Naturopathic recommendations include a daily intake of 50 g of fiber, but consult a naturopathic physician for an individualized diet plan.
Chromium
While diet plays a central role in naturopathic treatment of hypoglycemia, it is important to consider one key nutrient that has been identified as a major contributor to glucose control. Chromium deficiency is common in the U.S. and is generally found to be associated with hypoglycemia, diabetes and obesity. Naturopathic physicians, such as Dr. Robyn Hughes, of Durham, North Carolina, recommend supplementation with chromium along with a whole-foods diet. Optimizing chromium levels in the body may lower incidences of hypoglycemia, improve insulin binding and increase the number of insulin receptors, allowing glucose to be transported into the cells more efficiently.
Glycemic Index
The term, glycemic index, refers to the rise in blood sugar after consumption of a particular food. After eating, the body responds to carbohydrate-containing foods with an increase in insulin similar to the increase in blood sugar. Knowing the effect of particular foods on the blood sugar can be important when choosing what to eat. Glycemic index can be used by anyone with hypoglycemia as a tool to evaluate foods and make healthier choices. Pizzorno recommends choosing foods with lower glycemic index values and avoiding foods with high values.
References
- Dr. Robyn Hughes, N.D.; Durham Natural Health, Durham, North Carolina
- "Textbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr., N.D. and Michael T. Murray, N.D.; 2006
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Hypoglycemia
