Which dietary approach is most applicable to someone with reactive hypoglycemia?

The most effective dietary approach for managing reactive hypoglycemia is reduced carbohydrate intake. Reactive hypoglycemia occurs when there is a rapid drop in blood glucose levels after eating, often due to an excessive insulin response. Consuming a high amount of carbohydrates, particularly simple sugars, can lead to spikes in blood sugar followed by sharp declines, exacerbating the symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Reducing carbohydrate intake helps stabilize blood glucose levels by preventing large surges of insulin. Instead, incorporating complex carbohydrates that are high in fiber can provide a more sustained release of glucose into the bloodstream. This approach minimizes the risk of rapid blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger reactive hypoglycemia symptoms.

In contrast, a high carbohydrate intake would likely worsen the condition by prompting more extreme insulin responses. A low sodium diet is not specifically relevant to dietary management of reactive hypoglycemia, nor is a protein-rich diet on its own sufficient, as it does not address the underlying issue related to carbohydrate metabolism and insulin response. While protein can help provide satiety and assist in maintaining blood sugar levels, it is the reduction in carbohydrates that directly targets the mechanism of reactive hypoglycemia.