Reactive and Fasting Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is the condition in which blood glucose levels are lower than normal. A sudden release of adrenaline will cause hypoglycemic symptoms, which include apprehension, hunger, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and faintness.

Reactive Hypoglycemia

One kind of hypoglycemia is called reactive hypoglycemia. This type of hypoglycemia develops within 3 to 4 hours after eating.

Some foods are absorbed and digested more rapidly than others (food absorption is measured by glycemic index - GI), and result in a large amount of glucose being released into the blood stream. When one has reactive hypoglycemia, the body over-reacts to the glucose, and lowers blood glucose levels TOO much. When blood sugar is too low, the body releases adrenaline which causes glucose to increase in the blood stream. Reactive hypoglycemia can be controlled by having a steady supply of glucose in the bloodstream.

Non-fasting hypoglycemia within 1 to 2 hours after a meal (alimentary hypoglycemia) can occur if stomach contents empty into the intestines too rapidly.

A diet for reactive hypoglycemia

• Reduce intake of simple carbs - these are digested rapidly, and will contribute to hypoglycemia - ie. no candy, sweets, etc.
• Eat complex carbs and proteins at every meal - the complex carbs convert to glucose slowly, and provide one with this needed steady supply of glucose. Protein is needed for growth and health.
• Eat foods that are high in fiber. Soluble fiber (such as found in oats, legumes, and pectin in fruit) delays stomach emptying, digestion, and glucose absorption.
• Eat 5-6 small, well balanced meals throughout the day. This reduces the amount of sugar put into the system at any time, and allows for a steady supply of sugar.
  
• Don't eat a diet too high in fats.
  
• Artificial sweeteners may be used.
  
• Alcohol can cause hypoglycemia - avoid or limit.
  
• Avoid caffeine as it stimulates adrenaline production. Since adrenaline production is increased, the caffeine will increase the hypoglycemic symptoms.
  
• Maintain a healthy bodyweight - excess weight interferes with the body's ability to regulate glucose.

Fasting Hypoglycemia

In fasting hypoglycemia, the body is not able to maintain adequate levels of sugar in the blood after a very long period without food (often occurs in the morning; 5 or more hours after eating). Eat immediately upon waking if you are affected by fasting hypoglycemia.

References

[ http://www.gicare.com/pated/edtot19.htm ]
[ http://www.anitaflegg.com/Oct252002.htm ]
[ http://www.merck.com/...ch166a.html ]
[ http://www.bchealthguide.org/.../overview.htm]