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Hypoglycaemia
Overview:
Hypoglycaemia, or blood sugar imbalance, is very common in the modern world - most people are familiar with the mid-afternoon energy slump which disappears after eating something sweet.
Sugar and carbohydrate cravings, accompanied by fatigue and swings in mood, concentration and energy levels, could be symptoms of mild blood sugar imbalance.
Signs and Symptoms:
A more serious episode of hypoglycaemia may be signalled by:
* Weakness
* Heavy sweating - sometimes the perspiration will make the person feel very cold
* Hunger
* Nervousness and irritability
* Dizziness, feeling faint
* Trembling
* Tingling in hands and feet
In people with diabetes, hypoglycaemic symptoms might also include:
* Headache
* Nausea
* Palpitations (rapid heartbeat)
* Confusion, muddled feeling suggesting drunkenness
* Unconsciousness, coma, or convulsions
Causes and Organs Affected:
Hypoglycaemia is caused when there is an abnormally low level of glucose in the blood. This is normally due to the over-secretion of insulin by the pancreas.
The role of insulin is to transport glucose from the bloodstream into the cells (especially the fat cells and muscle cells), and to initiate glucose production in the liver. When the pancreas secretes too much insulin, too much sugar is removed from the bloodstream and the blood sugar becomes low.
Treatment:
Avoiding sugar, alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine will help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Regular exercise improves many aspects of glucose metabolism including enhancing insulin sensitivity and improving glucose tolerance in existing diabetics. However, exercising when your blood sugar levels are low (for example first thing in the morning before breakfast) may induce hypoglycaemia - if possible have something to eat an hour or so before training.
Other Information:
Having a good breakfast will make it easier for your body to balance blood sugar levels throughout the day. Try to combine a small portion of protein with complex carbohydrates - for example unsweetened muesli and yoghurt, or whole grain toast and egg.
Eat small frequent meals throughout the day made up of whole grain foods and low fat protein (such as almonds, fish, and low fat dairy products).