Hypoglycemia & Sodium

Hypoglycemia, low blood sugar, can cause symptoms that range in seriousness from mild to life-threatening. A poor diet is one of many potential causes of this condition. Some people believe that salt may play a role in helping control hypoglycemia, although there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs when you develop abnormally low levels of sugar in your blood. One of the main causes of hypoglycemia involves an excessive insulin reaction in diabetics, although other individuals may also experience hypoglycemia. Common causes of hypoglycemia include lack of nutrition, hormonal deficiencies, tumors, excessive intake of alcohol, strenuous exercise and certain autoimmune disorders. Hypoglycemia can cause numerous symptoms, such as fatigue, depression, anxiety, blurred vision, excessive sweating and irritability. Serious symptoms include seizures, heart palpitations, confusion and coma.

Sodium

Although you need a small amount of sodium to stay healthy, the odds are good that you already consume more than enough. The upper recommended limit for sodium intake for most people is 2,300 milligrams per day, although most Americans consume more than 3,400 milligrams, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC. The salt in your diet can contribute to high blood pressure as well as increase your risk of a stroke or heart attack. High blood pressure causes almost 400,000 deaths annually, warns the CDC.

Benefits

Although there is a lack of scientific research regarding the effects of sodium on hypoglycemia, one study conducted by the University of Sao Paulo School of Medicine in Brazil suggests that sodium may play a role in hypoglycemia. According to the Journal of Endocrinology, the 2005 study using rats as test subjects indicated that a severe restriction of dietary sodium might contribute to insulin resistance, a condition associated with hypoglycemia. More research is necessary to determine whether sodium plays a role in humans who have hypoglycemia.

Precautions

Do not attempt to treat hypoglycemia with salt. Avoid consuming more than the recommended amount of sodium each day. Let your doctor know if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, who can supply you with an accurate diagnosis and recommend proper methods of treatment.