The Most Common Cause of Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar, medically known as hypoglycemia, is something I take very seriously.

As someone who helps people achieve their health goals, including through approaches like the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, I've seen how frequent or severe hypoglycemia can throw a wrench into things.

Understanding the causes of hypoglycemia is the first step toward preventing it and achieving healthy blood sugar levels.

Let's explore the common causes of hypoglycemia, what happens in your body, and how to address it effectively.

Understanding the Causes of Hypoglycemia

Perhaps the most widely recognized cause of hypoglycemia is high insulin in the context of low blood sugar, also known as hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. This often occurs when we consume large quantities of carbohydrates.

These carbs spike your blood sugar level, triggering your pancreas to pump out a lot of insulin to bring those glucose levels back down.

While this is a normal response, repeatedly overwhelming your body with this cycle can lead to insulin resistance.

This means your cells become less responsive to insulin, causing blood sugar problems and potentially paving the way for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Going Beyond the Obvious: Why Insulin Resistance Isn’t the Whole Story

You see, attributing high insulin solely to excess carbs doesn’t always paint the complete picture. There are actually other crucial factors at play, which we need to understand to prevent hypoglycemia.

The oversimplification of “carbs are the enemy” doesn’t account for these complexities.

1. Medications: A Balancing Act Gone Wrong

It goes without saying that certain medications, especially those designed to manage diabetes like insulin itself, are major players in hypoglycemia.

Taking too much insulin or not adjusting doses according to your food intake or activity levels can tip the scales too far, resulting in your blood glucose level dipping too low.

Even accidentally taking someone else's diabetes medication can lead to dangerous consequences.

It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and communicate any concerns you have about your medication's effect on your glucose monitor readings.

2. Alcohol Consumption: More Than Just a Temporary “Sugar Crash”

Indulging in a few drinks, especially on an empty stomach, is a recipe for hypoglycemia. That's because alcohol can block your liver from releasing stored glucose, effectively slamming the brakes on your body’s ability to counter low blood sugar.

This can be a particular concern if you're fasting or not eating enough throughout the day. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation and ensure you're eating regular meals to help maintain stable glucose levels.

3. Strenuous Activity Without Fueling Up

While I advocate for a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, if you're suddenly ramping up your physical activity without adjusting your food intake, you're setting the stage for a potential hypoglycemic episode.

Exercise burns through glucose as fuel; without replenishing it, your blood sugar will plummet. Before engaging in strenuous activity, it's essential to fuel your body with a proper meal or snack.

This is particularly important for those managing diabetes with insulin or other diabetes treatment medications.

4. Underlying Medical Conditions: Peeling Back the Layers

This is where it gets more complex, but stick with me. Certain medical conditions can make hypoglycemia more likely. Pancreatic tumors, though rare, can disrupt insulin production.

We also need to consider adrenal fatigue. While it’s not as straightforward as directly causing low blood sugar, adrenal fatigue plays a role in how your body regulates blood glucose.

If your adrenal glands aren’t functioning optimally, the delicate hormonal balance that manages your blood sugar can be thrown off. I often talk about the crucial role of stress in adrenal health; chronic stress can throw this system out of whack.

5. Vitamin C Deficiency: An Unexpected Culprit

Vitamin C is well-known for immune support, but did you know a deficiency could potentially impact your blood sugar? Emerging research is showing us that vitamin C deficiency could play a role in disrupting glucose metabolism.

Ensuring adequate vitamin C intake through your diet, which acts as your primary energy source, is crucial.

If you're concerned about your vitamin C levels, talk to your care provider about whether supplementation is appropriate for you.

6. Other Factors: Beyond the Usual Suspects

Beyond the causes of hypoglycemia already discussed, several other factors can contribute to low blood sugar.

These factors often work in conjunction with other underlying causes, making it important to consider them in the broader context of your overall health and lifestyle.

Remember, these are just some potential causes of hypoglycemia. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as dizziness, cravings for sugar, lightheadedness, sweating, lethargy, or being irritable, please consult a healthcare professional.

How Keto and Hormonal Imbalances Contribute to Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can result from a variety of underlying causes, some of which are less obvious.

For individuals on a ketogenic diet, hypoglycemia may occur during the adaptation phase as the body adjusts to using fat for energy instead of glucose.

Additionally, hormonal imbalances, such as issues with insulin regulation or cortisol levels, can contribute to sudden drops in blood sugar. Recognizing these hidden causes is crucial for preventing hypoglycemia.

By following a proper, keto-friendly hypoglycemia diet that includes healthy fats, low-carb vegetables, and adequate protein, you can support steady blood sugar levels while addressing these root causes.

Conclusion

As we've uncovered, addressing the causes of hypoglycemia requires us to go beyond simplistic explanations.

It is vital to remember that our bodies are complex systems, and achieving optimal health often involves considering various factors that can impact our blood glucose levels.

Understanding how various factors interact within the human body is paramount.

By adopting a holistic approach to health and seeking guidance from medical professionals, we can better manage and prevent hypoglycemia and support overall well-being.