There is a difference between diabetic hypoglycemia and non-diabetic hypoglycemia, but people seem to confuse themselves with these two terms. Both have the same symptoms, but the treatment and causes differ. Usually, both are treated by making certain dietary changes. Here is a brief information about the diet for non-diabetic hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which the blood sugar level drops down drastically. Usually, this condition is seen in people who do not have diabetes. Low blood sugar levels indicate that your body does not have enough energy to carry out the daily chores and there is every possibility that you may faint, just as your blood sugar level drops down. Hypoglycemia is a very unpleasant condition that can make you feel dizzy, tired and weak all the time. Of course there are medicines and hormone injections you may need to take, in case the problem aggravates. But, the underlying rule to treat this condition is to change a few dietary habits and exercise regularly. A good diet should ensure complete nutrition and its prompt intake.
Diet for Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia: Dos and Don’ts
Complex Carbohydrates
Your diet should consist of complex carbohydrates in a good quantity. These foods include potatoes, brown rice, pasta, breads and so on. Complex carbohydrates are digested slowly and are sustained sources of energy. They help the blood sugar levels to rise gradually and avoid big or sudden fluctuations in the blood sugar levels.
High Fiber
Fibrous foods help to provide that extra roughage in cleaning your system and boosts your metabolism. Usually, high fiber foods are foods with low GI, hence they also help in regulating the blood sugar levels. Include all the leafy vegetables, fruits with their skin and whole grains in your diet every day. Make sure that you consume plenty of water in between two meals to facilitate easy absorption and assimilation of the nutrients.
Protein Rich
Proteins are the best when it comes to preventing the non diabetic hypoglycemic condition. Proteins are digested slowly and help in slowing down the blood sugar response. This activity helps the blood sugar levels to rise at a steady pace rather than resulting in sudden fluctuations. Protein rich foods like beans, peas, lentils, whole grains, leafy vegetables, meat, fish, chicken and nuts, should form a part of your daily diet.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Foods or drinks that contain caffeine can make you feel worse, if you suffer from hypoglycemia. Alcohol is considered to be one of the causes of hypoglycemia, hence to avoid the aggravation of the condition, it is better to keep away from alcohol. In case you can’t do without it, limit its intake and make sure you eat complex carbohydrate content foods alongside.
Small Meals
Plan your meals systematically and count carbohydrates you consume. Your dietitian or doctor will be in a better position to explain the carbohydrates counting. Make sure you eat small meals every 2-3 hours instead of 3 large meals. Small meals will boost your digestion and ensure that the insulin secretions are even and do not vacillate.
Avoid Sweet Foods
As far as possible, avoid the consumption of sweet foods like candies, cakes, cookies, jam, honey, desserts, chocolates and so on. These foods are simple sugars and definitely not healthy in managing hypoglycemia. Choose unsweetened foods or an artificial sweetener instead of binging on these sweets foods mentioned above. Another healthy way to satisfy your craving for sweet foods would be eating sweet fruits, they are sweet yet fibrous and nutritious at the same time.
This was all about the diet that one should follow in order to keep the blood sugar levels in control. Depending on the intensity of the condition and tolerance level of your body, a good dietitian or a medical practitioner may be able to chalk an appropriate diet plan for you, that exactly suits your condition.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.
Take care.
