Hypoglycemia & How it Affects Our Lives
Have you noticed that when you (or a
loved-one) wait too long between meals, you become irritable, confused,
nauseated or fatigued? That means you’re most likely experiencing
symptoms of postprandial hypoglycemia.
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What is postprandial hypoglycemia?
Postprandial hypoglycemia (also known
as “Reactive hypoglycemia”) translates as “Low blood sugar which occurs
after eating”. In postprandial hypoglycemia, a non-diabetic person
experiences reoccurring symptoms similar to those of medical
hypoglycemia. Medical hypoglycemia is a state where there are abnormally
low levels of glucose in the blood, resulting in an inadequate supply
of it to the brain.
What causes hypoglycemia?
Postprandial hypoglycemia usually
manifests about 4 hours after consuming a large carbohydrate meal or a
high consumption of glucose. Healthy adults maintain a blood glucose
level of around four mmol/L when between meals. If the level drops below four mmol/L, hypoglycemic symptoms may appear. The U.S. National Institute for Health
(NIH) states that "The causes of most cases of reactive hypoglycemia
are still open to debate. Some researchers suggest that certain people
may be more sensitive to the body’s normal release of the hormone
epinephrine, which causes many of the symptoms of hypoglycemia. Others
believe deficiencies in glucagon secretion might lead to reactive
hypoglycemia.”
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Symptoms:
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Treatment You can purchase a blood glucose meter in most pharmacies if you wish to test the levels of glucose in your blood. The NIH recommends taking the following steps:
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For more information, or if you suspect you might be suffering from hypoglycemia, consult with your family physician. |
jeudi 30 octobre 2014
Hypoglycemia & How it Affects Our Lives
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