Vitamins for Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar level in the body. In general, blood glucose level below 70 mg/dl is considered to be hypoglycemic. It commonly occurs due to complication of diabetes treatment with external insulin or other medications. Hence, hypoglycemia is also referred to as insulin reaction.

Hypoglycemia is caused due to effects of drugs and medications, starvation, hormonal deficiency, metabolic disorders, hyperinsulinism (endogenous insulin), organ failure, pancreatic tumors and critical illness. Symptoms of hypoglycemia differ depending upon the severity of the condition and causes. However, main problems arise from a poor supply of glucose to the brain. Some of the symptoms are headaches, nausea, weakness, palpitation, sweating, hunger, faintness, nervousness, vomiting, fatigue and sometimes life-threatening in severe cases.

Vitamins for Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is diagnosed based on the physical examination, medical history and blood glucose tests. Treatment of hypoglycemia is done by taking medication and raising the blood glucose levels. Immediate recovery for a hypoglycemic attack is achieved after consuming sugar-rich diets. Another important treatment of hypoglycemia is done by means of vitamins. Certain types of vitamins are used effectively for maintaining the sugar level and boosting the metabolism of the body. Let’s discuss about vitamins that are helpful in treatment of hypoglycemia.

Chromium is one of the most important vitamins that have been used in treatment of hypoglycemia and diabetes. Since chromium is a cofactor of insulin, it plays a major function of regulating the sugar level of the body. It activates the insulin receptors and increases the insulin transduction. Studies have found out that supplementation of chromium in the diet of a hypoglycemic patient helps in controlling blood glucose and improves insulin sensitivity of the body. Foods rich in chromium are nuts, wheat, legumes, seafood and mushrooms.

Vitamin B is most commonly used for treating hypoglycemia. It helps in digestion of carbohydrates, which ultimately results in sugar. Among the many types of vitamin B, Vitamin B3 (niacin) and Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) are mostly used for treatment of hypoglycemia.

Adequate amount of niacin speeds up the metabolism of food and increases the insulin sensitivity of the body. Most of the protein-rich foods have high content of niacin. Sources of niacin include pulses, fish, eggs, meat and milk. Pyridoxine maintains the glucose level by regulating the carbohydrate metabolism of the body. Some of the foods that contain pyridoxine are soybeans, wheat germ, whole-grain cereals and meat. One should also take magnesium supplements as they help in activation of vitamin B for metabolism of sugar and maintain the energy levels of the body.

Regular intake of vitamin C helps in overcoming hypoglycemia condition. It has been found out that vitamin C neutralizes insulin and helps to balance the glucose levels of the body. Food sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, tomatoes and potatoes. Another important vitamin used in treatment of hypoglycemia is vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant. It helps in processing and regulating glucose in the body. Vitamin E is found in green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, whole-grain cereals and in nuts and seeds.

Dimethylglycine (DMG), one of the active ingredients of vitamin B15 plays an important role in the sugar metabolism of the body. It enhances blood supply to the brain and helps in boosting the immune system and energy metabolism. DMG is a derivative of glycine (amino acid) and hence, it is mostly found in foods rich in glycine such as brown rice and seafood.

After following the treatment for hypoglycemia, it is advisable to regularly monitor the blood glucose levels for any changes. It is recommended to seek advice from a physician before taking up any treatment. Changing the diet and including vitamins that regulate the sugar level of the body can effectively help in treating hypoglycemia.