Foods to Avoid for Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, is associated mainly with diabetes, but can arise from a few other medical conditions, medications and diet. Keeping your blood sugar stable may take some time experimenting with your diet, keeping track of what you eat and your diet's effect on your blood glucose levels. There are some foods to look out for, as they may be the culprit causing your drop in blood sugar levels.

Grains

• Simple carbohydrates in the form of white flour products, such as bread and pasta, white rice, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes, cause an immediate spike in blood sugar, explains Jackson-Seigelbaum Gastroenterology at Gicare.com. This causes the pancreas to flood the body with insulin, removing too much sugar from the blood.

Sugar

• Sugars are another simple carbohydrate, just like refined wheat and grain products. This includes both white and brown sugars, honey, syrups, as well as natural sugars found in fruits, fruit juices, or milk.

Fats

• Jackson-Seigelbaum also report that a low-fat diet is beneficial in treating hypoglycemia. High-fat meats and dairy foods, such as milk and cheese should be avoided. Eggs and oils should be eaten in moderation.

Caffeine

• Caffeine, found in coffee, tea and some soft drinks, stimulates the production of adrenalin and may exacerbate the symptoms of hypoglycemia, making it more difficult for the body to naturally regulate the blood sugar.

Alcohol

• According to the Mayo Clinic, alcohol may interfere with the liver releasing glucose it stores into your blood stream. Heavy drinking on its own can cause hypoglycemia and should be avoided.