What Foods to Avoid on a Hypoglycemic Diet
Hypoglycemia, a condition associated with low blood sugar, can cause dizziness, weakness and low energy. In severe cases or cases left untreated, low blood sugar can cause confusion, fainting, seizures and even death. Hypoglycemia is often--but not exclusively--seen in diabetics. Eating small, frequent meals and staying aware of the symptoms can avert a drop in blood sugar. Certain foods and beverages can cause hypoglycemia; avoid them to keep levels stable.
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Alcohol
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Alcoholic beverages cause blood sugar levels to drop quickly, especially if consumed on an empty stomach. Alcohol can continue to cause hypoglycemia for up to 48 hours.
Sugar
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Eaten on an empty stomach, sugary snacks and candy can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar followed by a precipitous drop. Sugar is hiding in many foods; read the labels. Look for fructose, corn syrup or sucrose.
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Aspirin and Other Medications
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Though it isn't a food, aspirin is an indigestible worth mentioning. In larger doses (four tablets) it can affect blood sugar. Other drugs, including bacteria-fighting sulfas and the anti-malarial quinine, can lower blood sugar.
White Bread and Simple Carbs
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White bread and other refined carbohydrates are not recommended for hypoglycemics. Better choices include whole grain breads and complex carbohydrates.
Fries and Chips
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Avoid french fried potatoes and potato chips. A poor nutrition choice for any diet, they are especially bad for hypoglycemics. These potato products may contain trans-fats, but even prepared in healthy oils, they can cause unexpected fluctuations in blood sugar.
Diet Soda
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Sugar-free sodas seem like a great choice, but evidence indicates that artificial sweetener can increase sugar cravings and cause obesity. The San Antonio Heart Study indicated that diet soda drinkers were more likely to gain weight than those drinking regular soda.
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