Blood Sugar Regulation (Hypo)
What Does It Mean?
Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels that occur due to insulin dysregulation, adrenal fatigue, poor dietary habits, or metabolic imbalances. When blood glucose drops below optimal levels, the brain and body lack sufficient energy, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and cognitive dysfunction. Functional medicine aims to stabilize blood sugar, enhance adrenal resilience, and prevent sudden glucose drops to maintain optimal energy levels.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
• Excessive Insulin Production (Reactive Hypoglycemia) – Post-meal insulin surges cause blood sugar crashes.
• Adrenal Fatigue & Cortisol Dysregulation – Impaired stress response leads to inconsistent glucose regulation.
• Poor Diet (High Sugar & Refined Carbohydrates) – Excess simple carbs trigger insulin spikes and subsequent crashes.
• Chronic Inflammation & Gut Dysfunction – Leaky gut and microbiome imbalances impact glucose absorption.
• Nutrient Deficiencies (Magnesium, Chromium, B Vitamins, Amino Acids) – These are critical for glucose metabolism.
• Fasting or Skipping Meals – Long gaps without food lead to glucose depletion and stress hormone activation.
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction & Poor Glucose Utilization – Reduced ATP production impairs energy balance.
Signs & Symptoms:
• Shakiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Sudden irritability or mood swings
• Intense sugar cravings and hunger
• Fatigue and weakness, especially after meals
• Sweating, heart palpitations, or anxiety
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Headaches or blurred vision
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| ALT (SGPT) | Normal | 10.00-26.00 U/L |
| C-Peptide | Increased | 1.10-2.10 ng/mL |
| Glucose, Serum | Decreased | 75.00-86.00 mg/dL |
| Hemoglobin A1C | Normal or Decreased | 4.60-5.30 % |
| HOMA2-IR | Decreased | 0.75-1.25 |
| Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) | Increased | 140.00-200.00 U/L |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
The goal is to stabilize blood sugar, support adrenal function, and prevent sudden glucose fluctuations. The most effective approach is a nutrition-focused plan that supports healing through targeted, balanced dietary strategies.
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
• Eat Regular, Balanced Meals – Focus on protein, healthy fats, and fiber to maintain steady glucose levels.
• Avoid Processed Sugars & Simple Carbohydrates – Minimize blood sugar spikes and crashes.
• Increase Electrolyte Intake – Ensure adequate sodium, potassium, and magnesium to support adrenal function.
• Manage Stress & Optimize Sleep – High cortisol and poor sleep worsen hypoglycemia symptoms.
• Incorporate Light Exercise – Improves glucose utilization and insulin sensitivity.