Hypoglycemia, also known as Low Blood Sugar, means that a person's blood sugar (glucose) is abnormally low.  This condition is commonly associated with Diabetes, but it can be a result of other conditions in rare cases.  Hypoglycemia can result from taking too much medication, exercising more than usual, skipping meals, or eating less than normal.  If you don't have enough glucose, your body cannot function properly. 

The body needs glucose to run properly.  If you have Hypoclycemia, you can experience anything from shaking to fatigue, or being nauseous.  This symptoms usually occur suddenly and can include:

• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Heart palpitations
• Trembling
• Anxiety
• Shakiness
• Headaches
• Hunger
• Sweating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Sudden mood changes
• Tingling skin (can sometimes be in the lips)
• Trouble thinking clearly  

Hypoglycemia occurs when a person's blood sugar is too low.  While there are a few different causes of Hypoglycemia, it is most commonly attributed to the side effects of Diabetes medications.  People with Diabetes commonly take insulin, which helps the body use glucose for energy.  Insulin is like a key that unlocks the doors to cells so that glucose can enter and be stored for energy.  Too many insulin injections can cause blood sugar to drop, however, resulting in Hypoglycemia.  Other causes are listed below.

• Medications (oral diabetes medications or quinine, which is used to treat malaria)
• Overconsumption of alcohol
• Overproduction of insulin
• Medical conditions (such as Hepatitis or Kidney Disorders)
• A tumor that produces too much insulin
• Endocrine disorders (such as Adrenal Gland Deficiency)
• Hormone deficiencies
• Gluten Intolerance
• Thyroid condition
• Stress
• Poor diet
• Excessive caffeine intake

• It is a good idea to completely eliminate alcohol from your diet to help combat Hypoglycemia.  Additionally, cutting out processed foods, canned or packaged foods, refined sugars, salt, saturated fats, and soda be greatly beneficial to overall health.  All of these things can affect blood sugar levels or lead to Diabetes, which is linked to Hypoglycemia.  Switching to a more plant-based diet can provide you with the essential nutrients you need to function properly. 
• Focus on getting plenty of fiber-rich vegetables and legumes, which contribute to slow and gradual blood sugar fluctuations.  It may also be beneficial to eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of eating 3 larger meals. Include a small amount of protein, like nuts, in each meal and go a little lighter on fruit. 
• Cell damage caused by free radicals can sometimes cause Hypoglycemia, so drinking green tea can help protect your cells against these radicals.  Drinking one cup of green tea every day can help protect against cell damage. 
• Ginseng is a great herb that can help regulate blood sugar levels.  It essentially signals the pituitary gland to release more blood sugar regulating hormones than normal, while also helping to increase energy levels.  
• Licorice root has been known to help treat people with Hypoglycemia because it is a great herb that nourishes the adrenal glands.  It helps to elevate blood sugar levels without stimulating insulin production.  It also works to support hormone production by the adrenal glands.  Be careful to not overuse this herb because it can elevate blood pressure.  If you have High Blood Pressure, are pregnant, or are nursing, it's best to avoid this herb. 
• Avoiding artificial sweeteners like aspartame, regular sugars, and even sugary fruits is wise to do if you have Hypoglycemia.  It's best to use natural sweeteners like stevia, brown rice syrup, molasses, or agave. 
• Since stress can cause Hypoglycemia, it's best to find ways to decrease stress in your life.  Maybe meditation or breathing exercises will be beneficial, or light exercises like yoga and Tai Chi might help.  You can also try massage therapy or acupuncture, which helps re-establish a mind/body connection and promote proper circulation.  

• Green Tea
• Dandelion Root
• Ginseng
• Licorice Root
• Dark Leafy Greens (spinach, kale, & chard)
• Tomatoes
• Avocados
• Broccoli
• Celery
• Strawberries
• Apples
• Oranges
• Grapefruit
• Almonds
• Pistachios
• Organic Almond Butter
• Macadamia Nuts
• Bananas
• Pears
• Milk Thistle