In hypoglycemia, the body over-reacts to glucose and sends out too much insulin which drops the blood sugar dangerously low. Often blood sugar problems start out as hypoglycemia and progress to a state that leads to diabetes. Hypoglycemia is one of the principal conditions in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. As a secondary condition, candida overgrowth is usually an issue with blood sugar problems.
Hypoglycemia results from an imbalance of cortisol produced in the adrenals. Cortisol helps regulate the release of insulin. In this condition, the body sends out too much insulin in response to glucose in the blood, and then brings the blood glucose below normal levels. The blood sugar then crashes, which if severe enough could lead to loss of consciousness.
Eventually the blood sugar levels return to normal, but the cycle of high to abnormally low blood sugar and back to normal can take a few hours. This extreme fluctuation has a negative impact on the body in the long term. This situation puts a great deal of stress on the adrenal glands, liver and pancreas which eventually lead to organ exhaustion.
Hypoglycemia usually occurs as a response to a large intake of sugar, or inversely a lack of food for a long period of time. It can also be triggered by the smell or sight of food.
Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
- irritability
- extreme exhaustion/fatigue especially after meals
- extreme craving of sweet foods
- brain fog (temporary poor cognitive function)
- extreme thirst
- stomach shutting down
- jittery/shaking feeling
Diagnosing Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia can be diagnosed though observation, but if proof is required, there is the 5 hour glucose tolerance test which is given and monitored in a lab/doctor office setting.
In this test a baseline blood test is done to check blood glucose level. A high concentration sugary drink is then given, and blood sugar is monitored every hour to see the response. If hypoglycaemia is an issue then the blood glucose level rise/crash/stabilization will show up quite dramatically.
Eliminate from Diet to Prevent Blood Sugar Drops
- Sugar
- Simple carbohydrates
- Alcohol
- Pop drinks
- Caffeine
- Highly processed or refined foods
- Large infrequent meals
- Foods with hidden sugars (ketchup etc.)
Include in Diet to Prevent Hypoglycemia
- Smaller more frequent meals
- More protein
- Complex carbs (brown rice, whole grains, etc)
Supplements/Herbs for Hypoglycemia
An effective treatment for controlling hypoglycemia is the use of licorice root capsules
Licorice root actually prevents the body from destroying its own cortisol levels. It works kind of like a reuptake inhibitor and increases the availability of cortisol already in circulation . This in turn allows it to control blood sugar more efficiently. In the long run the adrenals gain back balance, and have the ability to reset so they don’t over react to glucose levels.
Important note: Licorice root will raise blood pressure so if chronic hypertension (high blood pressure) is present then do not use. DGL Licorice has the active compound removed and it is not of benefit. Consult a health care professional before starting a new therapy.
In addition, a homeopathic glandular support formula is very beneficial.
A third treatment that is very effective at restoring the body’s natural balance is the use of a Fast. A 50 to 60 hour fast is normal. During this time the person eats no food and only drinks water. Have someone be a watcher when fasting, and if possible the time should be used for quiet reflection.
With persistence and healthy eating, blood sugar fluctuations can be overcome.
References
Green Pharmacy, James Duke, 2002, ISBN-13 978-0312981518
From Fatigued to Fantastic by Jacob Teitelbaum ISBN-10 1583332898
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