A common side effect of medications such as insulin and sulfonylureas, is Hypoglycemia. A medical condition characterized by abnormally low levels of blood glucose, Hypoglycemia can occur in people with diabetes and also patients free from diabetes due to other medical conditions, medications, or alcohol consumption. Hypoglycemia refers to lowered blood sugar levels that impact normal functions of the body, as a result of depleted energy for the cells in the body. A common question among patients is – what foods should I eat or avoid for hypoglycemia? Following subsections offer a detailed look at the condition, along with answers to the above question.
Common symptoms of hypoglycemia
Symptoms commonly reported, usually vary depending on the severity and duration of the episode, apart from the individual’s age, overall health, and other factors. Common symptoms of hypoglycemia are listed below:
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Hunger or nausea
- Headache or confusion
- Blurred vision or impact on vision
- Irritability or abnormal mood changes
- Weakness or fatigue
- Seizures or convulsions
Symptoms are known to develop rapidly and may worsen if left untreated. Additionally, a section of patients are also known to experience “hypoglycemia unawareness,” a condition where the body no longer produces warning signs of low blood sugar. This can be dangerous as the individual may be unaware of the need to take action to prevent serious outcomes. Individuals experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia, are to check blood sugar level and consume a source of fast-acting glucose, at the earliest.
Treatment for hypoglycemia
Treatment for low blood sugar levels, depends on the severity of the episode and the underlying cause. However, typically, treatment involves consuming a fast-acting source of glucose to raise blood sugar levels quickly, followed by a slower-acting source of carbohydrate to maintain blood sugar levels.
For mild to moderate hypoglycemia, the following steps are advised:
- Consumption of 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate – glucose tablets, fruit juice, or regular soda.
- Individuals are to then wait for around 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar levels. If levels have not risen to an acceptable range, an additional 15-20 grams of carbohydrates are to be consumed again, and blood sugar levels are to be rechecked again in 15 minutes.
- After blood sugar levels have returned to an acceptable range, a longer-acting source of carbohydrate, such as a piece of fruit or a granola bar, is to be consumed to prevent another episode.
- When patients end up with severe hypoglycemia, (patients are typically unable to eat or drink in such condition), emergency medical attention is necessary. In such instances, a glucagon injection is typically administered to raise blood sugar levels quickly.
Emergency intervention measures
Emergency intervention measures for severe hypoglycemia, characterized by confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, or life-threatening symptoms, include the following:
- Administering glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels quickly. Administered to individuals with severe hypoglycemia and unable to eat or drink.
- Administering intravenous glucose in a hospital or emergency setting to rapidly raise blood sugar levels.
- Seek emergency medical services when patient is unresponsive or has difficulty breathing.
Individuals with diabetes or other conditions that are known to cause hypoglycemia are advised to carry a source of fast-acting glucose at all times and to wear appropriate medical identification to alert others about the condition.
What foods should I eat or avoid for hypoglycemia?
Individuals with hypoglycemia are to consume a well-balanced diet including complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. These foods are digested more slowly, regulating blood sugar levels and preventing rapid drops in blood sugar.
Foods that are ideal for consumption by individuals with hypoglycemia include:
- Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread
- Fruits, such as apples, berries, and citrus fruits
- Vegetables, such as leafy greens, carrots, and broccoli
- Lean protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds
- Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas
- Dairy products, such as low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese
Foods that need to be avoided or limited by individuals with hypoglycemia include:
- Refined sugars, such as those found in candy, soda, and desserts
- Simple carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and rice
- Processed foods, such as chips, crackers, and snack bars
- High-fat foods, such as fried foods, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy products
- Alcohol, which can interfere with blood sugar regulation and cause hypoglycemia
Healthcare providers and/or registered dietitians help in working out an individualized meal plan to meet the ideal nutritional needs of patients, and effectively manage hypoglycemia.
Who is at risk of developing hypoglycemia?
Though hypoglycemia can occur in anyone, certain categories of individuals may be at higher risk of developing hypoglycemia, including:
#1 People with diabetes: A common complication of diabetes, hypoglycemia occurs especially in those on insulin or certain oral medications that stimulate insulin production.
#2 Other existing medical conditions: Individuals with other medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, and hormonal disorders are also at risk of ending up with hypoglycemia.
#3 Post gastric bypass surgery: The surgical procedure can alter the manner in which the body absorbs and metabolizes nutrients, resulting in hypoglycemia.
#4 Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can interfere with the liver’s ability to release glucose into the bloodstream, resulting in hypoglycemia.
#5 Infants and young children: By virtue of lesser stored glucose and developing brains, infants and young children are more prone to hypoglycemia.
#6 Elderly: As a result of other medical conditions, intake of multiple medications, and decreased liver and kidney functions, elderly individuals are more prone to hypoglycemia.
What is the difference between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia?
Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are two conditions that involve blood sugar levels, but opposite in nature. Hypoglycemia refers to abnormally low blood sugar levels, with symptoms such as tremors, confusion, dizziness, sweating, and anxiety. The condition is often associated with diabetes, but is also known to occur in individuals without diabetes. This is attributed to reasons such as skipping meals, consuming excess alcohol, taking certain medications, or certain underlying medical conditions.
Hyperglycemia, refers to abnormally high blood sugar levels, and indicates diabetes, though it may also occur in individuals without diabetes due to various reasons. Common symptoms of hyperglycemia include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of wounds.