Reactive hypoglycemia is low blood sugar that occurs after meals, normally within one to three hours. Symptoms occur because there is decreased sugar available for use by the body's organs. Hypoglycemia is normally corrected by eating a meal; in some cases, however, reactive hypoglycemia may not resolve so easily. Lifestyle changes and smart food choices can help control reactive hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia
The body maintains a certain level of sugar in the blood, 70 milligrams per deciliter, in order to fuel essential organs, such as the heart and the brain. When blood sugar falls below this level, you may experience hunger, nervousness, weakness, confusion, anxiety, nervousness, shaking and drowsiness. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can result in organ damage, coma or death. Consult with your doctor about the appropriate treatment of your hypoglycemia.
Reactive Hypoglycemia
Reactive hypoglycemia occurs in people who do not have diabetes and produce insulin normally. The underlying causes of reactive hypoglycemia are not precisely known. Meals, especially those high in sugar, appear to trigger reactive hypoglycemia. Reactive hypoglycemia occurs in 20 to 30 percent of young women, especially the obese, and declines after age 45, according to McKinley Health Center. Gastrointestinal surgery, such as a gastric bypass, may induce reactive hypoglycemia due to the rapid entrance of food into the small intestines.
Reactive Hypoglycemia Diet
To prevent a fall in blood sugar after meals, eat smaller meals more frequently, no more than three hours apart. Avoid high-sugar foods, especially when not eating any other foods. Eat a balanced diet built around lean meats, low-fat dairy, whole grain, fruits and vegetables. Drink alcohol only in moderation, and be sure to eat food with alcohol, as it may cause a drop in blood sugar. If your reactive hypoglycemia does not respond readily to meals, avoid alcohol and high-sugar foods completely.
Lifestyle Changes
Regular exercise or physical activity appears to be critical in the management of reactive hypoglycemia. Educate yourself to early warning signs of hypoglycemia. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of your blood sugar level. Reactive hypoglycemia may be related to the overproduction or over-sensitivity to the neurotransmitter epinephrine. Avoid supplement, such as stimulants, and highly stressful situation that raise epinephrine levels. High epinephrine levels produce shakiness, hunger, anxiety, sweating and anxiety.
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