Blood sugar (low)
See also the advice for 'blood sugar high' in the 'common ailments' section of this site. Eat one large or two small apples after each meal for their beneficial and balancing effects on blood sugar. Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates like wholegrains and their products, fresh fruit and vegetables, seeds, nuts and the like. Eat smallerand regular meals, about 6 a day using nuts, seeds or dairy based snacks between meals if needed. Eat foods rich in B vitamins such as whole grains. See also 'vitamins' in the 'natural healing' section of this site for more foods rich in B vitamins. Avoid fatty foods, processed food, all junk foods and white sugar and alcohol. Avoid caffeinated drinks as they cause an imbalance of blood sugar. Caffeine causes the liver to release stored glucose into the blood giving a temporary surge in energy levels. The pancreas is then forced to release insulin to deal with the rush of blood sugar and the energy rush subsides into a feeling of weariness or tiredness. The person may crave another coffee to feel the 'kick' again and the process is repeated. Over time (weeks and months) of this reliance on caffeine for energy, the pancreas becomes exhausted and can lead to severe swings in blood sugar levels. Caffeine also causes the release of adrenal hormones leading to feelings of shakiness and anxiety.General characteristics
General characteristics
Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose falls below the optimum level and fails to provide adequate fuel and maintain healthy functioning of cells and delivery of energy to the body. When blood glucose is very low you will feel hungry, tired and irritable with sweating, anxiety and palpitations. Intense sugar cravings will likely be present also. Eating a snack of complex carbohydrate will quickly rectify the problem.
Diet and lifestyle
Diet and lifestyle
Useful herbs
Useful herbs
Natural healing
Natural healing
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