Hypoglycemia

In: Health & Fitness

14 Sep 2009

Hypoglycemia is a tendency for the body to have abnormally low levels of glucose in the blood. The low level of sugar in the blood causes a wide range of symptoms including the swings and fatigue.

Hypoglycemia causes too much insulin to be secreted into the blood. The high levels of insulin drastically reduced the levels of glucose in the blood to abnormally low levels. Glucose in the blood is used for energy not just by the muscles but by all body systems.

The cells of the body use glucose for energy, so not having enough glucose negatively impacts several body systems. Hypoglycemia causes psychological, cognitive, and physical symptoms.

Insomnia, dizziness, heart palpitations, faintness, and cold hands and feet can be caused by hypoglycemia. Other symptoms of hypoglycemia include sudden hunger, frequent cravings for sweets, headaches, allergies, and blurred vision.

Hypoglycemia can also cause psychological symptoms such as problems controlling temper, crying spells, phobias, nervousness, depression, and mood swings. Hypoglycemia can cause forgetfulness and mental confusion.

After hypoglycemia is diagnosed, the physician may recommend that the patient meet with a dietitian to develop a hypoglycemia diet for the patient. One of the most common, general diet recommendations for people with hypoglycemia is to eat six small meals a day instead of three larger meals.

People with hypoglycemia may be asked to avoid certain foods that can contribute to the patient’s low blood sugar. Foods that contain large amounts of sugar or white flour can cause difficulties for people with hypoglycemia.

Lean meats, whole grains, vegetables, and some fruits are often seen as the best foods for people with hypoglycemia. The consumption of fruit may be restricted. A common recommendation is for people with hypoglycemia to avoid dried fruit. The physician may recommend that the person avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco since they can exacerbate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.

People with hypoglycemia should always eat breakfast and avoid skipping meals in general. Some people with hypoglycemia find it helpful to keep a small snack with them, especially if they think that their meals may be delayed. The person may find that with a few adjustments to their diet, the hypoglycemia becomes much more manageable and the symptoms are reduced.

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