Low Blood Sugar Levels

Early diagnosis of low blood sugar can cure the disorder completely. You shall come to know the various symptoms and reasons behind low blood sugar levels in the body. The diet is also suggested to help you normalize the level. Read on.
The condition of low blood sugar levels in the body is medically termed as hypoglycemia. The normal sugar level for human blood is 70mg/dl. If a person is diagnosed with sugar levels below this, then he is known to be suffering from hypoglycemia. Glucose, being an important source of energy helps the body to perform various activities. If glucose levels drops below normal, it can give rise to many health disorders. People suffering from low blood sugar levels usually have low energy and get frequent fatigue bouts.

Low Blood Sugar Levels Symptoms

The Symptoms act as indicators of hypoglycemia. The brain requires adequate amount of glucose for normal functioning. The common symptoms of low blood sugar are listed below.
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Hunger
  • Nervousness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Paleness
  • Tremors
  • Headaches
  • Numbness (tongue and lips)
  • Palpitations
  • Goose bumps
In extreme cases of hypoglycemia, the severity of symptoms increase. Extreme low levels blood sugar levels might cause abnormality in behavior and gradual loss of consciousness. A person can experience frequent seizures accompanied by blurred vision. In worst cases, a person can sweep into a coma.

Causes of Low Blood Sugar Levels

The sugar level in blood depreciates either due to inadequate intake of carbohydrates or due to existing body ailments. The possible causes of low blood sugar are mentioned below.

Malfunctioning of Liver and Kidney
In cases of kidney or liver failure, the body loses its ability to synthesize the hormone glucagon. As a result the body suffers from low blood glucose levels.

Existing Cancer in Body
Cancer patients undergo frequent sessions of chemotherapy. The medication and chemicals gradually alters the activity of the taste buds. As a result a person feels a different taste for food. Improper diet devoid of glucose often leads to fall in glucose levels.

Hormonal Imbalance in Body
Improper functioning of the adrenal gland leads to hormone imbalance. Secretion of the two hormones, cortisol and epinephrine is dependent upon the activity of the adrenal gland. This often happens due to illness that subsequently decreases the level of glucose in blood.

Other Reasons for Low Blood Sugar
Apart from these there are certain habits associated with our daily lifestyle that play a considerable role in diminishing blood sugar level. Inadequate intake of food and skipping meals leads to low blood sugar. Overdose of insulin and consumption of excess alcohol are also responsible for low blood glucose.

Diet for Low Blood Sugar Levels

People suffering from hypoglycemia should focus more on intake of carbohydrates and glucose. The diet can be balanced with adequate amount of protein and fiber. Let us find out what an actual hypoglycemia diet should consist of.

Rich in Complex Carbohydrates
Consumption of carbohydrates is an inevitable factor in the diet chart for hypoglycemic people. The carbohydrate should be in a complex form. This includes vegetables, whole grains, pasta, legumes, brown rice, etc. Complex carbohydrates show a gradual increase in glucose levels in blood.

Devoid of Simple Carbohydrates
People suffering from this ailment should not consume simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates cause a sudden rise in blood glucose levels and show a reverse effect. The foods that should be avoided are cookies, candies, pastries, pizzas, jellies, jams, table sugar, pies, etc.

Increase Intake of Fiber
A high fiber diet consisting of plenty of fruits and vegetables must be consumed regularly along with complex carbohydrates. Consumption of fiber prevents sudden elevation of glucose levels in blood. Cauliflower, broccoli, sweet potatoes, cabbage, guava, peas, pumpkin, spinach, mushrooms are rich in fiber.

Regular Consumption of Protein
Make protein a part of your diet. Regular consumption of proteins balances the overall increase in blood glucose and helps to maintain normal levels in blood. Dairy products like butter, milk and eggs are rich in protein. Make cereals, legumes and grains as part of your hypoglycemia diet.

No Caffeine and Alcohol
Doctors always advice to stop consumption of beverages rich in caffeine as it causes a sudden fall in levels of blood glucose. Intake of alcohol is tremendously harmful to people suffering from hypoglycemia. Therefore, the best way to prevent further damage to the body is to avoid consumption of alcohol and caffeine.

In any case you observe the symptoms of low blood sugar levels, take immediate steps to visit the doctor. Get the treatments done from a medical expert at the early stages to prevent aggravation of this health condition.
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Published: 7/3/2010
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