Twelve Do’s and Don’ts If You Suffer From Low Blood Sugar Or Hypoglycemia
As you're probably aware, there are numerous books on hypoglycemia diet. If you've had the opportunity to read some of them - or some of the articles on that topic - you're probably aware that many disagree on what type of diet to follow.
First of all, know that each author has enough confirmation and evidence that his or her diet is successful. Most likely, they all are. Probably, this is due to the fact that the most serious offenders (sugar, white flour, alcohol, caffeine and tobacco) are eliminated and six small meals are consumed instead. That's common to all hypoglycemia diets.
But the key to a successful hypoglycemia diet lies in how you personalize it. Every person is unique. Therefore, every diet must be made to measure to meet our individual nutritional requirements.
The list of allowable foods that your physician gives you, or the list you've read in your favorite book on hypoglycemia, are only guidelines. A more appropriate list for you will come with time and patience, trial and error. Pay attention to what your body is telling you. It will let you know when it cannot tolerate a food.
So basically, follow the suggestions in the following 12 do's and don'ts, and, if all goes well, with just a few adjustments during your course of treatment, a new, healthier, happier and more energetic you will gradually appear.
DO's:
1-DO... keep track, on a daily basis, of everything you eat for one to two weeks. In the left column, list every bit of food, drink and medication that you take and at what time of the day. Directly opposite each entry, list in the right column your symptoms and the time at which you experience them. Very often you will see a connection between what you've consumed and the symptoms you're experiencing. When that happens, eliminate those foods or drinks that you notice are apparently contributing to how you feel and note the difference. DO NOT STOP MEDICATION. If you believe that your medication may be contributing to your symptoms, contact your physician. A diet journal is your personal roadmap: a clear view of what you're eating, digesting and assimilating. It can be the first indicator that something is wrong and, perhaps, a very inexpensive way of correcting a very "simple" problem.
2-DO... eliminate the "baddies" ... those foods, drinks and chemicals that cause you the most problems: the "worst baddies" are sugar, white flour, alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. However, you DO have to be very careful as to when and how you eliminate those offending substances. Only YOU, with the guidance of a health-care professional, can decide how much, and how fast. Some people choose to go at a steady pace. For example, if you drink six cups of coffee a day, gradually reduce consumption over a period of days or weeks. If, like me, you drink only two coffees a day, but you put three teaspoons of sugar in each cup, reduce the sugar gradually until you can drink it without. It took me six weeks to get there, but I did it. The same is true for food or tobacco. If you're heavily addicted to the "baddies", especially alcohol, then withdrawal should not be undertaken unless you're under the care of a physician.
3-DO... replace those "bad-for-you" foods immediately with good, wholesome, nutritious food and snacks as close to their natural state as possible. The recommended list includes lean meats, chicken (no skin), whole grains, vegetables and allowable fruits. You want to prevent deprivation from setting in, especially the "poor ole me, I've got nothing good to eat" attitude. Hey, there's plenty to eat.
4-DO... eat six small meals a day. Or you can have three meals with a snack in between. One of the keys to successfully manage your low blood sugar or hypoglycemia is to NOT over eat, and to eat at fairly regular intervals.
5-DO... what you need to do to be prepared to keep your blood sugar stabilized at all times, whether you're at home, at the office, at school or on holidays. When you're home, you should always have allowable foods ready in the refrigerator or in the cupboards. Also, it's a great idea to always keep appropriate snacks in your car or where you work. And in your backpack when travelling.
6-DO... pay attention to the amount of 'natural' foods or drinks you consume. Even though juices are labeled 'natural', you'll find that they contain high amounts of sugar. And for your body, sugar is sugar is sugar...and your body will react to an excess of it. That's because whether or not the sugar you consume is 'natural', your body, unfortunately for you, doesn't know the difference.
7-DO... your research and put together your own library of cookbooks. They don't absolutely have to be for hypoglycemics. There are many good cookbooks available that contain recipes with no or little sugar, and few or no carbohydrates.
DON'Ts:
8-DON'T... freak out when you first hear about all the foods you like that you must now eliminate from your diet. Read the list - and check out the glycemic index list - and keep repeating all the foods that you CAN eat. There are many of them.
9-DON'T... go anywhere without being fully prepared with proper and allowable meals and snacks. If you want a healthier you - and a happier you - this is one of the keys to success.
10-DON'T... skip breakfast. Ever. If you suffer from low blood sugar or hypoglycemia, breakfast IS the most important meal of the day. It really sets the tone for how your day is going to unfold, energy wise.
11-DON'T... even think of comparing your results or your progress (or lack of) with others'. Each person's metabolism is different. If you're feeling better and better week after week, you're doing the right things. Keep it up.
12-DON'T... obsess about your diet. If you constantly think about what you can and can't eat, youll increase your levels of fear, stress and frustration.
Eat well, be well, live well!
Can My Herbal Supplements Harm Me?
Unknown to most people is the fact that everyday foods and Herbal supplements can and do interact with popular prescription medications. I became interested while talking to my Pharmacist that my son couldn't take decongestant cold medications with his heart medication. Well, I knew about interactions between two drugs, but when the Pharmacist told me he couldn't have grapefruit juice, I was stunned. Seems that grapefruit juice increases the blood concentrations of the drug. Basically that means that it greatly enhances the effects of the drug which could result in an overdose of the medication. This is everyday grapefruit juice! It got me wondering about other everyday foods and Herbs we take. Below are a few foods and Herbs that have an effect on your medications.
This list is a basic guide, and is by no means the meant to replace your Doctor or Pharmacist. Consult with them about any prescriptions you are taking and the foods and Herbs that will interact with them. Although I have taken this information from a handout from a local Hospital, Use this information at your own risk. Again, I am not a Doctor or Pharmacist, and I have had NO medical training, so please consult with yours for more information.
People usually ask if Herbal supplements change the way their prescription drugs work. The answer is YES! Some medications should never be taken with Herbal supplements. Some can cause unwanted side effects or cause the medication to stop working to their full effect.
Another misconception about supplements is that they are completely safe because they are natural. Yes, they may be from plants, but they are not natural to your body. Herbal supplements are not tested or inspected like prescription drugs are tested, so the supplements vary in quality and strength from pill to pill and bottle to bottle.
Just like supplements, foods can change the way your body responds to medications. One example is grapefruits and grapefruit juice. Many people aren't aware that grapefruit juice can increase the drug levels of certain medications. An increase in the levels will also increase the side effects of the drug.
Things to Remember
1. Herbal supplements and foods can change the way your medications work.
2. Tell your caregiver what Herbal supplements you take and what foods you eat often.
3. Ask your Doctor or Pharmacist what Herbal supplements or foods will interact with your medications.
4. Always talk with your Doctor or Pharmacist FIRST before taking any Herbal supplements.
DISCLAIMER: The following charts are not all inclusive and do not contain every interaction of drugs with foods and herbs. It serves as a guide only. Consult with your Doctor, Pharmacist or a registered dietician if you have any questions.
Analgesics (Pain Relievers)
Aspirin
Celecoxib (Celebrex)
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Naproxen
Food: Avoid alchohol. Avoid large amounts of orange juice and vitamin C.
Herbs:Avoid Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Flaxseed Oil, and Ginko as it increases the risk of bleeding.
Narcotics
Codeine (Tylenol #2, 3, 4)
Morphine (MS Contin)
Oxycodone (Oxycontin/Percocet)
Foods:Avoid alchohol.
Herbs:Do not take with Kava or Valerian as it may make you feel drowsy.
Antibiotics
Ciproflaxacin (cipro)
Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
Food: Take 2 Hrs before or 6 Hrs after antacids, dairy products amd multi-vitamins that contain calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium. Avoid large amounts of caffeine.See Chart 3 below.
Herbs:
Methronidazole
Foods:Avoid alchohol during and 3 days after taking this medication to avoid nausea and vomiting.
Herbs:
Penicillin
Foods:Citrus fruits/juices and carbonated beverages will decrease desired effect.
Herbs:
Tetracycline
Foods:Take 2 Hrs before or 6 Hrs after antacids, dairy products amd multi-vitamins that contain calcium, iron, zinc, or magnesium.
Herbs:Dong Quai or St. John's Wort increase the risk of sunburn.
Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
Foods:May cause rash if taken with alchohol.
Herbs:Dong Quai or St. John's Wort increase the risk of sunburn.
Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Food: Avoid alchohol. Avoid foods high in Vitamin K: beef liver, oils and green leafy vegetables (broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, collards, spinach).
Herbs: Avoid Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Evening Primrose, Feverfew, Flaxseed Oil and Ginko as they increase the risk of bleeding. Do not take St. John's Wort as it may decrease the desired effect.
Cholesterol Lowering Agents
Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Pravastatin (Pravachol)
Rosuvastatin (Crestor)
Simvastatin (Zocor)
Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.
Diabetes Medications
Glipizide (Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL)
Glyburide (Glynase, Micronase)
Metformin (Glucophage)
Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra as it may increase blood sugar and decrease desired effect.
Erectile Dysfunction
Sildenafil (Viagra)
Tadalafil (Cialis)
Vardenafil (Levitra)
Food: Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Yohimbe as it may increase side effects.
Gastrointestinal Agents (Stomach Meds)
Prochlorperazine (Compazine)
Food: Do not take with alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Dong Quai, Kava, St. John's Wort or Valerian as they may make you drowsey.
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Foods: Avoid alchohol. Take 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3.
Herbs: St John's Wort may decrease desired effect.
Lansoprozole (Prevacid)
Omeprazole (Prilosec)
Pantoprazole (Protonix)
Rabeprazole (Aciphex)
Foods: Avoid alchohol as it may cause upset stomach.
Herbs: St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.
Heart and Blood Pressure Medications
*Note: The following herbs may cause an INCREASE in blood pressure and decrease desired effect of any blood pressure medications: Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Ephedra, Hawthorn, Quassia, Vervain and Yohimbe.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors-
Captopril (Capoten)
Linisopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
Food: Avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium and potassium rich foods; see Chart 1.
Herbs: See *Note above
Beta Blockers-
Atenolol (Tenormin)
Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol ZL)
Propranolol (Inderal)
Foods: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: See *Note above.
Calcium Channel Blockers-
Diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac)
Verapamil (Calan, Verelan)
Foods: Do not take with grapefruit juice. A low sodium diet may be recommended.
Herbs: See *Note above.
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Foods: Avoid antacids. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Ma Huang and St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.
Nitrates-
Isosorbide (isordil, Imdur)
Nitroglycerin Patch (Nitrol)
Foods: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: See *Note above.
Diuretics (Water Pills)
Furosemide (Lasix)
Hydrochlorothiazide
Food: INCLUDE potassium rich foods in diet; see Chart 1 below.
Herbs: See *Note above under Heart and Blood Pressure Medications.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Estrogen (Premarin, Premphase, Prempro)
Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: St John's Wort may decrease desired effect. Do not take Black Cohosh Dong Quai, Red Clover or Saw Palmetto because of the possible side effects.
Mood Disorders
Aripiprazole (Abilify)
Clozapine (Clozaril)
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
Risperidone (Risperdal)
Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take grapefruit juice. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wor or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.
Benzodiazepines-
Alprazolam (Zanax)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Diazepam (Valium)
Lorazepam (Ativan)
Foods: Avoid alchohol. Do not take grapefruit juice. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wor or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Food: Avoid alchohol. Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Green Tea.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI's)-
Phenelzine (Nardil)
Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
Foods: Avoid alchohol. Avoid tyramine-rich foods see Chart 2 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra, Kava, Ginko, St. John's Wort or Yohimbe as they may increase effect and cause a serious increase in blood pressure.
Selective Seratonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's)-
Citalopram (Celexa)
Escitalopram (Lexapro)
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Paroxetine (Paxil)
Food: Avoid alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra, Kava, Melatonin, Valerian or Yohimbe as they may make you drowsy. Do not take with St. John's Wort as it may increase effect of drug and risk of side effects.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA's)-
Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Desipramine (Norpramin)
Nortriptyline (Pamelor)
Foods: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava, St. John's Wort or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy.
Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control)
Estradiol Cypionate
Ethinyl Estradiol
Mestranol
Food: Avoid smoking.
Herbs: Do not take with Chaste Tree Berry, Red Clover, Saw Palmetto or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.
Osteoporosis
Alendronate (Fosomax)
Risendronate (Actonel)
Food: Take only with plain water. Do not take anything else within 30 minutes of taking these drugs as they may decrease desired effect.
Herbs:
Seizure Medications
Carbamazepine (Carbatrol, NOT Tegretol)
Divalproex (Depakote)
Oxcarbazepine (trileptal)
phenytoin (Dilantin)
Food: Avoid alchohol. Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Evening Primrose increases risk for seizures. Do not take with Kava or Valerian as they may make you feel drowsy. St. John's Wort may decrease desired effect.
Thyroid Medications
Levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid)
Thyroid (Armour Thyroid)
Food: Limit intake of Brussel Sprouts, cabbage, kale, greens, rutabaga, soybeans and turnips.
Herbs: Do not take with Lemon Balm.
Miscellaneous
Antihistamines-
Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Food: Do not take with alchohol.
Herbs: Do not take with Kava or Valerian as it may make you feel drowsy.
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Foods: Do not take with grapefruit juice.
Herbs: Do not take with Echinacea or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.
Prednisone
Methylprednisolone
Food: Avoid alchohol. Calcium supplements may be recommended to prevent Osteoporosis.Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Avoid Echinacea or St. John's Wort as they may decrease desired effect.
Theopylline (theo-Dur)
Foods: Avoid alchohol.Limit caffeine intake; see Chart 3 below.
Herbs: Do not take with Ephedra or Green Tea as it may increase effect of drug.
Foods:
Herbs:
Chart # 1
High potassium rich foods include the following:
Apricots, Artichokes, Asparagus, Avacado, Banana, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Carrots, Celery,
Chocolate, Dates, Dried Beans, Dried Fruit, Figs, Greens, Honeydew, Milk, Orange Juice, Potato,
Pumpkin, Prune Juice, Raisins, Rhubarb, Spinach, Squash, Tomato, V-8 Juice
Chart # 2
High tyramine-content foods include the following:
Aged Cheese*, Aged Meat,Anchovies, Avacados, Bananas, Beer, Broad Beans, Caffeine
Chicken Liver, Chocolate, Cola Drinks, Canned Figs, Mushrooms, Raisins, Sausages, Sour Cream
Soy Sauce, Wine (Chianti, Sherry), Yeast, Yogurt
*Camembert, Chedder, Gruyer, processed American and Stilton
Chart # 3
High caffeine-content foods include the following:
Chocolate (milk and dark, Coffee (brewed, cappuccino, expresso)
Caffeinated water (Java, Kank, Aqua Blast), Ice Cream (coffee, chocolate)
Soft Drinks (Mountain Dew, Coca Cola, Pepsi, Root Beer, Sunkist Orange Soda)
Teas (green Tea, Ginseng, Snapple Iced Tea, Lipton)
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