Tackling Diabetes With Functional Medicine With Ghamdan Al-Areeky [1eef1e]
Post Time: 2025-07-29
Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is a condition that can be detrimental to athletes during competition. When an athlete's blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter), it can cause confusion, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Low blood sugar symptoms in athletes often go unnoticed until they are severe enough to impact performance. However, there are warning signs that athletes should be aware of:
- Shakiness or tremors
- Sweating or clamminess
- Hunger or cravings for sweets
- Irritability or mood swings
- Fatigue or weakness
- Confusion, disorientation, or loss of focus
Athletes experiencing these symptoms during competition may not realize that they are suffering from low blood sugar. In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
The Impact on Athletic Performance
Low blood sugar can have a significant impact on athletic performance. When an athlete's muscles lack the necessary fuel (glucose) for energy production, their physical abilities are severely impaired:
- Reduced speed and endurance
- Decreased strength and power output
- Poor coordination and balance
- Fatigue or exhaustion
Additionally, hypoglycemia can lead to overeating after a workout, which may actually worsen blood sugar control in the long run.
Preventing Low Blood Sugar
Athletes can take several steps to prevent low blood sugar during competition:
- Eat Carbohydrate-Rich Snacks: Eating snacks high in carbohydrates (e.g., fruits, energy bars) before and after exercise can help maintain stable blood glucose levels.
- Monitor Blood Glucose Levels: Using a glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) to track blood sugar levels during competition can alert athletes of potential problems.
- Adjust Training and Competition Plans: Tailoring training programs and competition schedules to avoid periods of low energy intake or prolonged exercise may help mitigate hypoglycemia.
Recovery from Low Blood Sugar
If an athlete experiences severe symptoms, medical attention should be sought immediately. For milder cases:
- Eat 15-20 Grams of Carbohydrates: Consuming small amounts (about 15-20 grams) of carbohydrates can raise blood sugar levels quickly.
- Drink Water or Sports Drinks: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy production and reducing hypoglycemia.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, and consequences of low blood sugar in athletes, trainers and coaches can take proactive steps to ensure their athletes perform at optimal levels. Regular monitoring and carbohydrate-rich snacks are key factors in preventing hypoglycemia during competition.
In this episode of Thriving with Diabetes, Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer, a Functional Medicine Physician, shares her insights on how to tackle diabetes by addressing the root causes rather than just managing symptoms. She discusses the key differences between Functional Medicine and traditional approaches, emphasising the importance of data-driven lab tests, gut health, and hormonal balance in optimising health. We explore how the gut microbiome affects blood sugar regulation, why weight gain is often a symptom of deeper imbalances and the role of personalised nutrition in managing diabetes. Dr. Hehmeyer also provides practical tips on how to restore hormonal balance and improve metabolic health. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to take a deeper, more holistic approach to diabetes management. Join The FREE 7-Day Wellness Challenge: SUMMARY NOTES: 1. Functional Medicine vs. Traditional Approaches: Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer explains how Functional Medicine takes a holistic approach, addressing the root causes of diabetes rather than just managing symptoms. Learn the key differences between Functional Medicine and conventional treatments. 2. Lab Tests in Personalised Support: Discover the importance of data-driven lab tests in developing a personalised health strategy. Dr. Jessie shares the key tests she uses to uncover hidden imbalances and guide her approach to managing diabetes. 3. Gut Health and Blood Sugar Regulation: Understand the critical connection between the gut microbiome and metabolic health. Dr. Jessie discusses how gut health can impact blood sugar levels and shares practical steps to improve the microbiome for better diabetes management. 4. Weight Gain as a Symptom of Deeper Imbalances: Weight gain is often a symptom of underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or inflammation. 5. Nutrition for Better Blood Sugar Control: Learn about the nutrients and vitamins that Dr. Jessie prioritises for diabetes management. 6. Hormonal Health and Diabetes: Explore blood sugar conversion chart uk to us the powerful role hormones play in diabetes management. Dr. Jessie talks about the common disruptions to hormone balance like gaining fat and offers strategies for naturally restoring hormonal health to support metabolic function. ABOUT THE GUEST: Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer is the physician founder of Well Empowered where she practices data-driven, heart-centered Functional Medicine. She created Well Empowered with one commitment in is 95 blood sugar good mind: Guiding you in creating the health and vitality that transforms your experience of life and alters what is possible. How does Dr. H live true to this? By taking a root-cause, natural medicine approach that marries heart and science. Through working one-on-one and with groups, Dr. H provides access to the information, inspiration and strategies you need to produce sustainable and transformative health outcomes. Website: Instagram: / wellempowered HOW TO WATCH & LISTEN: You can watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify, listen on Apple Podcasts or explore additional viewing options by visiting our website at Rumble: can low blood sugar cause tingling in face SUBSCRIBE AND SHARE: Don't miss any future episodes of Thriving with Diabetes! Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform and share our podcast with friends, family, and anyone looking to make a positive impact on their health. CONTACT INFORMATION: If you have any questions or need support, please contact us at Website: Diabetes Coaching: Contact Us: Diabetes Support Group: / wellnessimpact #wellnessimpact #diabetes #podcast #longevity #ghamdan