Hypoglycemia Diet
The Hypoglycemia Diet is intended to help people with hypoglycemia, as well as reduce the likelihood for those at risk of developing hypoglycemia.
Principle of the Hypoglycemia diet
Hypoglycemia is a condition where there is an abnormally low level of sugar in the bloodstream. This condition is caused when the pancreas excretes too much insulin, which sends the blood sugar (glucose) level below levels required for normal functioning.
Hypoglycemia can cause symptoms such as fatigue, insomina, mood swings, heart palpitations and mental confusion. This is because the body requires glucose for energy. Without sufficient energy, the body does not function properly.
Hypoglycemia can be caused by eating excessive sugary foods which overburden the pancreas. The Hypoglycemia Diet is intended to control the effects of hypoglycemia.
What are you allowed to eat on the Hypoglycemia diet?
The following is permitted under the Hypoglycemia Diet:
- Lean meat – such as poultry (skinless), seafood and lean red meat;
- Vegetables;
- Whole grains – such as wholemeal bread;
What is forbidden on the Hypoglycemia diet?
The Hypoglycemia Diet recommends that the following should not be consumed:
- Alcohol;
- Processed flour – such as white bread;
- Caffeine;
- Soft drinks;
- Potatoes;
- Pasta and rice;
- Fruit juices and dried fruits.
The following should be restricted:
- Fruit.
While fruit contains natural sugar, the body does not distinguish between natural and processed sugar.
Hypoglycemia Diet Pros and Cons
The Hypoglycemia Diet is beneficial for those with hypoglycemia or are at risk of developing the condition. The diet recommends limiting foods with sugar and also recommends making healthy lifestyle changes such as reducing the amount of processed foods in the diet.
Other healthy changes that the Hypoglycemia Diet recommends include eating a healthy breakfast and eating three main meals, or six small meals a day.
The Hypoglycemia Diet should only be used if you have been diagnosed as hypoglycemic or at risk. It should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. While the Hypoglycemia Diet is generally well-balanced, some restrictions (such as limiting the amount of fruit) is unnecessary for those without the condition.
The Hypoglycemia Diet can be difficult to begin due to its restrictions. People on the Hypoglycemia Diet are also encouraged to keep a food diary with a listing of all foods they have eaten during the first ten days of the diet. Maintaining the diet diary can be time-consuming.
Daily and Weekly Plans for the Hypoglycemia diet
There are no set plans for the Hypoglycemia Diet. The Hypoglycemia Diet is tailored for the needs of each individual. Some individuals can tolerate small amounts of fruit, for instance, while others must completely eliminate fruit from their diet.
Expected Weight Loss on the Hypoglycemia diet
There are no reports on expected weight loss, as weight loss varies greatly between individuals. The Hypoglycemia Diet is intended to control hypoglycemia, not weight loss.
Hypoglycemia Diet Rating
Ease: 3/5 – Can be difficult initially, due to the restrictions and maintaining a diet diary.
Balance: 5/5 – A balanced diet for maintaining appropriate sugar levels.
Maintenance: 4/5 – The Hypoglycemia Diet can be easy to maintain once the right balance of foods is found.
Overall: 5/5 – Very successful for those hypoglycemia.
More Information
You can get a free personalized Hypoglycemic Diet Profile from eDiets.com.