Help! What can I eat as a hypoglycemic?

Although not widely talked about, many Australians are considered to be 'hypoglycemic', which means that they have low blood sugar levels, and react to certain foods differently than others.\n\nEarlier this week we wrote a blog covering the main symptoms of hypoglycemia, designed to help you identify whether you could be suffering unawares.\n\nIt may be worth popping in to see your doctor, just to be sure that you aren't being affected by this condition.\n\nHowever, if you already know that you are hypoglycemic, then you may be wondering what on earth you can eat now that you have been diagnosed.\n\nFortunately we have some dietary tips and suggestions for you, courtesy of the Hypoglycemic Health Association of Australia (HHAA).\n\nStart the day with a savoury, high-protein breakfast\n\nIf you traditionally regard breakfast as being sweet, then you may need to rewire your early morning taste buds!\n\nAccording to the HHAA, you should start the day with a large high protein breakfast, preferably containing some form of meat such as chicken or fish, or at least two eggs.\n\nWhy not try making a low-fat savoury omelette? Another idea could be to make warm pastry-less quiches. You could also eat breads and cereals so long as they are low GI.\n\nSnack smart\n\nTo keep your blood sugar levels stable, it is important to snack regularly - aim to eat about every 2 to 2.5 hours.\n\nFor this, it's advised to choose a low GI snack such as nuts (preferably raw and unsalted) or a small portion of rolled oats.\n\nAvoid refined carbohydrates\n\nHypoglycemics have to be careful about the sort of carbohydrates they eat, as the body processes carbs in the same way it does sugar.\n\nLike with snacks, it's a good idea to choose low GI options, such as brown rice, bread and wholegrain crackers and cereals.\n\nDairy is also a good alternative choice - yoghurt, milk and cheese can all add extra flavour and substance to meals. \n\nBut what about sugar?\n\nThe biggest question on the tip of everyone's tongue is most likely - "but what about sugar"? Everyone loves the odd sweet treat every now and then, and it seems unfair that hypoglycemics have to avoid sugar!\n\nYet the good news is, there are alternatives to your traditional sweeteners, such as Stevia and Xylitol.\n\nThese are known by many as 'healthy sugars' because they are low in calories and natural alternatives, making them a great choice for people watching their weight, diabetics - and hypoglycemics!\n\nWhile it is still important to be careful how you consume them - cakes and biscuits made with white flour may negatively affect your blood sugar levels - in most cases Stevia and Xylitol make a good sugar replacement.\n\nAdd them to your tea, or use them to sweeten your cereal. For some more ideas about recipes, make sure you consult a hypoglycemic expert or your nutritionist.\n\n