Hypoglycemia - frequently asked questions
What do I need to know about hypoglycemia?
Take a minute and re-read the hypoglycemia chapter in our book or the paper on this website. It's really important for you to understand the basic concepts if you are hypoglycemic.
All you need to do is follow the diet as written. It works on real live people. The glycemic index doesn't really translate into HG as certain things slow down the absorption of sugar and certain sugars don't prompt the release of insulin which is what you are trying to avoid. An insulin index would be more accurate than an glycemic index, but even then, for reasons not yet understood by researchers, the body handles some carbohydrates differently.
Our diet does not count carbs, carbs are not equal to each other. A gram of the kind of carbohydrate that occurs naturally in vegetables is not the same thing as a gram of dextrose or sucrose.
All you need to do is follow the diet as written. It works on real live people. The glycemic index doesn't really translate into HG as certain things slow down the absorption of sugar and certain sugars don't prompt the release of insulin which is what you are trying to avoid. An insulin index would be more accurate than an glycemic index, but even then, for reasons not yet understood by researchers, the body handles some carbohydrates differently.
Our diet does not count carbs, carbs are not equal to each other. A gram of the kind of carbohydrate that occurs naturally in vegetables is not the same thing as a gram of dextrose or sucrose.
i think I am hypoglycemic. Which Diet is right for me?
The Strict Diet is for hypoglycemics (or diabetics) who need to lose weight. Both the strict and the liberal diet will work to control your blood sugar. Most people will not lose weight on the liberal diet. If you are normal weight or underweight you do not ever want to do the strict diet.
How do I substitute cream for milk on the strict HG diet?
To substitute cream for milk on the strict HG diet (on the liberal milk is allowed) water down the cream about 1/4 with water, and add a dash of sugar-free sweetener like splenda. Milk is sweeter than cream, and cream needs just a dash of sweet taste when you use it instead.
What does "Being in Ketosis" mean?
When you are on a low carb diet for weight loss, you are in ketosis by definition. Ketosis means that you are burning fat for fuel -- ketones appear in the urine. Ketosis is NOT dangerous. It should not be confused with ketoacidosis which IS serious.
Can I drink coffee on the HG diets?
If you are hypoglycemic you can only drink decaffeinated coffee.
Can I eat Corn Starch on the HG diet?
No corn starch on either HG diet, sorry.
Do I have to eat every two hours on the HG diet?
No. There is no need to eat every few hours on the HG diet. You should eat when you are hungry.
Does hypoglycemia cause any lumps in muscles?
No, HG does not cause lumps. It can cause tight muscles (muscle spasm) but not lumps and bumps.