Advice for the adult hypoglycemic

I’ve had hypoglycemia my entire life. I used to pass out repeatedly as a young child before the doctors got a handle on it. I had constant snacks at school, special diets, the works.

I was put through a fasting test when I was 13, which assigned me to the borderline catagory. The symptoms did fade when I hit puberty, aside from the occasional drop, which a few bowls of cereal always fixed nicely.

My most severe (recent) attack was about 8 years ago, when I was 19. I passed out and broke off my two front teeth. (I was rather lucky I didn’t go face first into a glass aquarium, but I digress.) Since then its been mostly under control.

Except for the last few months, unfortunately. In the last 48 hours alone I’ve had two attacks. I’m much better now at not pushing it and I’ll immediately sit down & put my head between my knees if I even feel close to passing out.

I’ve been trying to regulate my sugar more responsibly, but it doesn’t seem to be helping. I’ve cut out almost all refined sugars, except for the occasional treat before bed. I’ve been sticking with the higher protein, higher carb, lower fat ratio.

I have noticed that its cyclical in nature - it gets worse right before my period. I’m wondering if this has to do with the fact that I could eat anything not nailed down or on fire during this time frame.

I plan on seeing an endocrinologist after the first of the year, when I have sick time to use. I’ve tried doing research online, but the advice varies so widely - I’ve even seen something about how hypoglycemia isn’t a real medical condition. :smack:

Is there any light that medically-oriented Dopers can cast on this for me? Why would this be getting worse instead of better? I understand all responses are to be taken with that ol’ grain of salt, this-is-not-to-be-taken-in-lieu-of-professional-medical-advice disclaimer. Thanks in advance.
Staggers off to eat mixing bowl full of Wheat Chex and 2% milk

I’m borderline hypoglycemic (I’ve never fainted, but I do get shaky), and I’ve found that having a bit of protein in the morning usually means I don’t get shaky before lunch. Having peanut butter on toast instead of regular butter helps a lot, and my new snack is a small handful of Trader Joe’s peanut butter-filled pretzels. Of course, the fat in the peanut butter is a problem, but I’m taking one issue at a time. :slight_smile:

Recently, I’ve found that even cereal with almonds in it is better than that without – that little bit of protein makes a big difference for me!

Hope this helps!