Low Blood Sugar
An abnormally low level of sugar in the blood is known as hypoglycemia. It can occur in people with poorly controlled or unrecognized diabetes, but also in non-diabetics. Some sufferers also have thyroid problems, so a check-up may be advisable. The carbohydrates we eat are converted into sugar, which is carried in the bloodstream to provide energy for all our body functions. Ironically, people who eat large amounts of sugary foods are most at risk of low blood sugar. This is because refined sugars cause an almost instant surge in the blood sugar level, but this quickly drops, so you crave more sugar and find yourself a vicious circle of energy highs and lows that exhaust the body. Other symptoms of a low blood sugar include irritability, poor concentration, weakness, headaches and fatigue. In diabetics it can, at worst, lead to a coma.
Dietary Advice To Avoid Low Blood Sugar
The body and brain need a constant supply of sugar to function at their best. This is best provided by small, regular meals and wholesome between meal snacks such as dried fruit and nuts. Start your day with a good breakfast, for example cereal or toast, fruit or fruit juice and an egg. This is essential as your blood sugar level will have dropped overnight.
Eat a varied diet, including foods that provide a mix of slow and fast release sugars. Wholegrain cereals, breads, pasta and brown rice release sugar slowly, while fresh and dried fruits provide a mix of slow and fast release natural sugars in form that the body can use effectively.
Mixing proteins and carbohydrates helps to balance blood sugar levels. High levels of refined carbohydrates like sugar, chocolate, cakes, pastries and white bread encourage blood sugar swings, so avoid them as much as possible. Coffee and fizzy drinks can also contribute to low blood sugar so cut them down or avoid them altogether.
If necessary, a supplement of chromium may help stabilize blood sugar level.
Complimentary Natural Remedies For Low Blood Sugar
Chinese herbalism, Western herbalism and homeopathy can all help, especially if you refer to a qualified therapist, but you can use natural remedies to cope with some of the symptoms of a low blood sugar.
Rub 2.5 ml diluted peppermint oil into the temples to help relieve a headache and revive flagging energy. Put 4 to 5 drops of pure rosemary essential oil in a burner to refresh a tired mind and body, and improve concentration. A drop of pure grapefruit or bergamot essential oil on a tissue can be uplifting if you are low.
Rescue Remedy, the Bach Flower essence, can also help relieve symptoms.
Recommended Ready Made Natural Remedies For Low Blood Sugar
- Triple Complex Diabetonic (Homeopathy / Biochemic Tissue Salts)
FDA registered homeopathic remedy to maintain normal blood glucose levels and a normal blood sugar levels - Insulate Plus (Herbal)
Natural remedy to support pancreatic health and maintain normal blood sugar levels - Blood Sugar Balance (Chinese Herbal)
An effective Chinese herbal formula used as part of the diet to help keep blood sugar levels within the normal range