Understanding Reactive Hypoglycemia: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Reactive hypoglycemia is a health condition characterised by low blood sugar levels after eating, typically surfacing within two to four hours post-meal. This condition can manifest in individuals with or without diabetes and is often linked to excessive insulin release following carbohydrate-rich meals. Let's delve deeper into what causes this condition, the common symptoms, and how it can be prevented and managed effectively

Causes of Reactive Hypoglycaemia

While the exact cause of reactive hypoglycaemia remains unclear, several factors could play a part:

• Overproduction of Insulin: Consuming large, carbohydrate-rich meals might trigger an excessive insulin release, leading to a blood sugar drop.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Prediabetes, hormonal disorders, or rare enzyme deficiencies could influence insulin regulation.
• Post-Surgical Impact: Certain gastric surgeries may alter food processing in the digestive system, increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia.
• Other Factors: Alcohol consumption, specific tumour types, and metabolic diseases may also contribute to its occurrence.

Signs of Reactive Hypoglycaemia

Symptoms typically appear within 2-4 hours post-meal and may include anxiety, confusion, dizziness, irritability, light-headedness, sweating, and extreme tiredness. Recognising these symptoms can help individuals seek timely medical attention.

Preventing and Treating Reactive Hypoglycaemia

Prevention Strategies

The key to preventing reactive hypoglycaemia lies in dietary and lifestyle changes:

• Small, Frequent Meals: Consuming smaller meals every three hours can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Balanced Diet: Including a variety of foods in your diet while avoiding high-sugar and refined carbohydrates can be beneficial.
• Mindful Alcohol Consumption: If consuming alcohol, ensure you eat along to prevent blood sugar dips.
• Regular Exercise: Staying active can aid blood sugar regulation.

Treatment Options

Generally, reactive hypoglycaemia may not need medical treatment. However, in case of severe symptoms or underlying conditions, a doctor might recommend dietary modifications and medical evaluations.

Joining a comprehensive diabetes management programme like the Apollo Super 6 could be beneficial. This programme, designed by the expert doctors at Apollo, focuses on diet improvement, physical activity increment, and provides continuous support for managing diabetes more effectively.