Will dieting and weight loss cause symptoms of hypoglycemia

Dieting to lose weight may cause symptoms of hypoglycemia, mainly related to insufficient energy intake, carbohydrate deficiency, imbalanced blood glucose regulation, decreased metabolic rate, individual differences, and other factors.

1. Insufficient energy:

Long term strict restriction of calorie intake can lead to a lack of energy required for basal metabolism in the body. When the daily calorie intake is below 800 calories, the liver glycogen reserve is rapidly depleted, and the body is forced to break down fat and protein for energy. At this time, blood sugar levels may drop sharply below 3.9 mmol/L, leading to hypoglycemic reactions such as dizziness and hand tremors. It is recommended to consume no less than 1200 calories per day. 2. Carbohydrate deficiency: Extreme dieting that completely cuts off staple foods can cause blood sugar to lose its primary source. The brain consumes 120 grams of glucose per day. When carbohydrate intake is insufficient, the body maintains blood sugar levels through gluconeogenesis, which may delay and cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. At least 100 grams of high-quality carbohydrates, such as oats and brown rice, should be consumed daily.

3. Regulating Imbalance:

Repeated hunger can disrupt the synergistic effect of insulin and glucagon. The pancreas may secrete excessive insulin under long-term hunger stimulation, which can lead to reactive hypoglycemia after eating. People with insulin resistance are more likely to experience delayed episodes of hypoglycemia 3-4 hours after meals.

4. Metabolic slowdown:

Continuous low calorie diet can reduce basal metabolic rate by 20% -30%. When the body enters the "energy-saving mode", the liver's glucose output decreases and muscle tissue's uptake of blood sugar increases, which may trigger fasting hypoglycemia. This metabolic adaptation will continue for several weeks even after the diet is stopped.

5. Individual difference:

People with large body weight base, diabetes patients, and people after gastrointestinal surgery are more sensitive to dieting. Women with less muscle mass and significant hormonal fluctuations have a 2-3 fold increased risk of experiencing hypoglycemia in the week before menstruation. The probability of experiencing hypoglycemia during weight loss in adolescents is 1.5 times that of adults.

Scientific weight loss should avoid a daily calorie deficit of more than 500 calories, and supplement protein and complex carbohydrates every 3 hours, such as pairing eggs with whole wheat bread. Monitor blood sugar before and after exercise, and immediately consume 15 grams of fast carbon if symptoms such as palpitations and cold sweats occur. Patients with diabetes or recurrent hypoglycemia should seek medical advice to check the function of islets, and adjust the diet plan under the guidance of doctors when necessary. It is recommended to adopt a high protein, medium carbohydrate, and low glycemic index Mediterranean diet, combined with resistance training to maintain muscle mass, which can stabilize blood sugar levels and achieve sustained weight loss.