Hypoglycemia Diet in Children

Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by dangerously low drops in blood glucose levels. Glucose is needed to fuel cells in the body, especially brain cells. Hypoglycemia may occur as a stand-alone disorder or it may occur along with diabetes or it may be a symptom of hyperinsulinism or liver disease. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, confusion, tremors, sweating, headache, irritability, paleness and extreme hunger.

Sugar

• Limit high-sugar foods. Food items that are high in simple sugars may cause the blood sugar to spike and then drop suddenly. High-carbohydrate foods include soda, candy and desserts. Children can have these items in moderation.

Eating Schedule

• Give children with hypoglycemia smaller, more frequent meals with snacks in between. To keep blood sugar levels steady, children need to consume food throughout the day. Children should not go more than 4 hours without eating.

Balanced Meals

• Provide children with hypoglycemia a balanced diet. Meals should include protein, carbohydrates and fats. Fruits are fine to eat, but fruit juice should be limited to 1/2 cup per serving.

Treating Hypoglycemia

• If a child is displaying symptoms of dangerously low blood sugar, offer the child something sugary to eat or drink such as regular soda, cake frosting or orange juice. If the child is diabetic, you may need to give them glucagon as well.