Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia means that there is an abnormally low level of sugar in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as fatigue, tiredness (often shortly after eating), headaches, dizziness, weakness, hunger and sweet cravings.
Hypoglycaemia is often linked to diet. Every time you eat sugary foods or have a soft drink, insulin is released into your system, gathering up any excess sugar and storing it as fat, so that you feel hungry or thirsty again a short time later. This over secretion of insulin into your system is usually the cause of Hypoglycaemia.
Blood sugar levels need to be balanced:
Avoid refined carbohydrates and simple sugars - sugary and processed foods will be absorbed into the body rapidly and force an excessive insulin response. (white bread, pastries, pies, sausage rolls, cakes, sweets, chocolate
Diet can help
- Eat complex carbohydrates in moderation
- Foods containing complex sugars (E.g. Wholemeal pasta, noodles, yams) take longer to reach the bloodstream and therefore do not cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate as dramatically
- Eat a diet high in fibre and unrefined carbohydrates
- Eat large amounts of vegetables, wholegrains and pulses. (beans, brown rice lentils). High fibre food slows the absorption of nutrients and glucose and therefore does not cause an excessive insulin response
- Drink more water and herbal teas
- Avoid soft drinks, alcohol and caffeinated beverages as they exaggerate hypoglycaemia
- Eat regularly
- DO NOT go without food. Eat small meals every 2 / 3 hours
Food intolerances can often be linked to Hypoglycaemia. The Food Sensitivity test will help to identify any foods that may be causing a reaction.
A Vitamin and Mineral test will identify any deficiencies in the body. An incorrect balance of minerals can lead to fatigue and poor absorption of foods.
Hormone imbalances with the pancreas, glucagon and insulin can be identified and corrected with the correct herbal and nutritional supplements.
The Food/ Vitamin & Mineral and Hormone test assists in the development of an individual programme to help to balance blood sugar in the case of Syndrome X and other metabolic disturbances such as Hypoglycaemia.
Supplements
Chromium
The 'master hormone' of metabolism; it not only controls blood sugar levels and many other aspects of carbohydrate breakdown and storage, but also directs much of the metabolism involving fat, protein and energy (calories). Because insulin requires chromium to function properly, this trace element has significant biological effects in the body.
Vitamin B Complex
Important for proper digestion and absorption of food. Helps the body tolerate foods that cause low blood sugar reactions
Vitamin B6
Helps to absorb protein
Vitamin E
Improves energy and circulation
Zinc
Required for proper release of insulin
Natural Practices recommend:
Nopal
Helps maintain blood sugar balance, thus preventing cravings and 'high and low' feelings. Beneficial to the digestive system
P-14
Helps support the pancreas, balances blood sugar levels and improves digestion.
Sucroguard
A nutritional formula to assist blood sugar highs and lows.
All of the above should be checked first by your Doctor as they contain Chromium.
Energy Boost
A wonderful tonic and aid for the pancreas, providing a tonic to the digestive system in order that enzymes can be metabolised correctly. Excellent for blood sugar dips, cravings and post-lunch slump.
The products Natural Practices recommend can be purchased from our on-line Shop or by telephone on 01625 549 000. We are aware that the on-line Shop leaves a lot to be desired and are currently working on making improvements.
The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice and any health concerns should be investigated by your Doctor. Professional medical advice should be sought before embarking on any change of diet or supplementation programme.
