hypoglycemia/ADHD connection

by Kate
(Seattle)

Yes, I just discovered my own hypoglycemia (something I have dealt with my whole life without knowing/understanding it) and have also recently realized the connection between ADHD and hypoglycemia. It's so important to keep blood sugar balanced, especially if you have ADHD.

I always wondered why I tended to act crazier than most people when drinking alcohol--it turns to sugar! So my ADHD/hypoglycemia combined with alcohol would get me whacked! I understand now. I'd dance on tables, jump off of things, drive super fast, climb a huge rock or cliff if I was outside and on and on.

Yeah...everyone loves a fun, crazy and entertaining person at a party. But I look back on those experiences, and it scares me now. Even if I don't drink for a year, it still affects me the same, and I go nuts even with a couple of drinks. It's really a wonder I'm alive with my ADHD anyway, to tell you the truth...and I have also put my children at risk many times.

But the hypoglycemia thing makes it all worse! I see that so clearly now, and lately I have tried to eat more often and healthier too. It's difficult because I hyper-focus and etc. and forget to eat (like now). And sometimes I don't realize I'm hungry unless I see my hands trembling a little...or I start to slur my words.

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Jun 15, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		ADD/hypoclycemia/alcoholism
by: Jim

I have these three. Discovered alcoholism first. I had to keep drinking alcohol (liquid sugar) to keep my blood sugar up and not crash. Alcohol made up for the dopamines my brain lacks (common in genetic alcoholics and ADD), exacerbated by low blood sugar. One year into sobriety I discovered the hypoglycemia. Had to get rid of all simple carbs just to exist. I eat 8 small meals a day - high protein, good fats, whole grains, veggies (can't handle fruit). Now I just learned I have ADD. Today I took my first dose of ritalin and while not perfect, I feel as if I don't have to chase the five tangential directions of my thoughts and can be present and focus. Shew!
May 11, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		They don't know
by: TJ Chambers

One thing you have to remember is that doctors are trained to diagnose symptoms and treat it with medication.

Most don't know anything beyond that. So they probably have no clue about what I have shared & if you mentioned it they would probably tell you its not the case.

The thing to remember is that ADHD is a disorder. It means that the body is not acting the way it is suppose to. So you have to figure out why is it acting that way and is there something you can do and should you do something?

Doctors are for emergencies and its up to parents to take care of everything else. They know better how to care for their child than the doctors.
May 11, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		ADHD/bipolar/hypoglycemia
by: Anonymous

Thanks for the follow-up and response, TJ. It's funny you should mention the bipolar thing. My son's doctor said something interesting recently. He said that many adults with ADHD are now getting a duel diagnosis--ADHD/bipolar. Out of all of the doctors my son and I have seen over the years, I never heard even one of them mention the word hypoglycemia, especially in correlation with ADHD/bipolar. I mean, the connection seems so obvious though! Of course, doctors wouldn't get their usual kickbacks from pharmaceutical companies if they didn't push drugs like Ritalin and lithium on patients. So why would they let us know that ADHD/bipolar might be related to hypoglycemia?
May 05, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hypoglycemia - low blood sugars
by: TJ Chambers

I just had a talk on the phone with a mother the other day. I discussed this issue with her. Blood sugars are crucial for most people. I tend to not pay attention to myself also even when I know I'm getting hungry.

In the drinks you mentioned, there are also artificial colors and other ingredients that can also cause problems with ADHD.

If you consume sugar or carbs that convert to sugar, it spikes the blood sugar. If you consume to much in 1 serving, then you will be on a high and may even have hyperactivity. This person is happy and talkative but can't sit still or focus or read or do homework.

The body works to bring the blood sugars into balance but then they drop below balanced. This same person has a mood swing (I believe this to be bipolar). They are now angry and moody. They may not be hyperactive but sitting around. They can't focus or concentrate and don't want to do anything.

Consuming more protein than carbs helps with this balance. Eliminating sugar and artificial ingredients is a must.

Constipation plays into blood sugar issues. Have the bowels emptying 3 or more times a day is necessary.

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