Foods To Pull Out Of Hypoglycemic Slump

If you suddenly find yourself feeling shaky and lightheaded, you may be experiencing the effects of a drop in your blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. You may feel irritable or anxious. Diabetics may experience these symptoms periodically. Individuals who do not have diabetes may also experience these symptoms, though the precise cause is uncertain. The first course of action is to increase your blood sugar levels back to normal to prevent the more serious consequences of the condition.

Treatment

Staying in tune with your body and the effects of the symptoms of hypoglycemia will improve your ability to respond quickly to a drop in blood sugar. To increase blood sugar, consume an easily digestible form of sugar. MayoClinic.com recommends taking three glucose tablets, which is sugar in its simplest form. You can also take a tablespoon of honey or sugar. A 1/2-cup serving of fruit juice or regular soda will also increase your blood sugar quickly.

Why It Works

The reason these foods and drinks work effectively is chemistry. Liquids containing sugar will reach your bloodstream more quickly than foods your body has to break down first. The same applies to glucose tablets. These easily digested sources work quickly. Fast action is essential. Without enough sugar, your symptoms may progress to a more serious situation simply because your body cannot function without sugar. Other symptoms include seizures and loss of consciousness. Hypoglycemia can be fatal.

Diet

Managing your diet is critical for avoiding an episode of hypoglycemia. Whether you are diabetic or just overly sensitive to the effects of sugar, eat frequent, small meals to provide your body with a constant supply of glucose. A 2011 study by Northside Nutrition & Dietetics in Australia recommends focusing on foods that are digested more slowly to keep you feeling sated. Foods with a low glycemic index will be less likely to raise your blood sugar too high and set you up for a blood sugar crash.

Defining Glycemic Index

The glycemic index is a measure of how sugar enters your bloodstream after eating foods containing sugars and starches. White bread has a high GI of 70, whereas grapefruit has a much lower GI at 25. When you consume a high GI food, your body releases insulin to lower blood sugar levels. If the subsequent drop is too much, you will experience the effects of hypoglycemia. Keeping your blood sugar on an even keel will help avoid these spikes and drops. If you routinely experience bouts of hypoglycemia, discuss your condition with a doctor.