Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome: Underlying Causes and Available Treatments
Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome (IPS) is a condition that shares symptoms with hypoglycemia, but unlike hypoglycemia, it does not result in clinically low blood sugar levels. This condition, whose causes remain unknown, can cause symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, rapid heart rate, weakness, mood changes, confusion, dizziness, fatigue, a headache, blurred vision, lack of coordination, sleepiness, and hunger[1].
While the exact triggers for IPS are yet to be identified, some possible factors include stress, anxiety, and excessive alcohol consumption[2]. Additionally, certain foods or medications may also trigger IPS symptoms[3]. Consuming refined carbohydrates or foods high on the glycemic index might contribute to IPS symptoms, and limiting these foods may help manage the condition[4].
In contrast to IPS, hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels, can lead to life-threatening conditions, including long-term damage to the nervous system and increased risk of heart attacks[5].
The body of an individual with IPS absorbs carbohydrates too quickly, leading to a rapid increase in blood glucose levels that may drop while still remaining within the normal range[6]. This rapid fluctuation in blood glucose levels can cause the symptoms associated with IPS.
To manage IPS symptoms, dietary changes can be beneficial. Following a grazing diet, which involves eating small meals regularly throughout the day with no more than 3 hours between meals, may help manage symptoms[7]. Additionally, consuming more lean proteins, high fiber foods, and healthy fats may also be beneficial[8].
In some cases, dietary changes may not be enough to manage IPS symptoms, and a doctor may recommend certain medications. If a person frequently experiences hypoglycemia symptoms after eating, they should consult a doctor for diagnosis and potential treatment options[9].
It's important to note that IPS is not associated with diabetes[10]. However, in some individuals with IPS, the pancreas may produce excessive insulin after a meal[11]. This rapid insulin release can contribute to the rapid increase and subsequent drop in blood glucose levels.
The use of Acarbose (AGIs) has been suggested as a potential treatment for IPS. AGIs help delay the absorption of carbohydrates in the small intestine, which can lower postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels[12]. However, more research is necessary to determine the effectiveness and safety of AGIs for treating IPS[13].
In conclusion, IPS is an idiopathic condition that can cause symptoms similar to hypoglycemia without low blood sugar levels. While the exact causes of IPS are unknown, possible contributing factors may include stress, autonomic nervous system abnormalities, and certain foods or medications. If dietary changes do not relieve IPS symptoms, a doctor may recommend certain medications, including AGIs. Further research is needed to better understand the causes and effective treatments for IPS.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/ [13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156653/
- Despite sharing symptoms with hypoglycemia, Idiopathic Postprandial Syndrome (IPS) does not result in clinically low blood sugar levels.
- Unknown triggers for IPS may include stress, anxiety, excessive alcohol consumption, certain foods, or medications.
- Consuming refined carbohydrates or foods high on the glycemic index might contribute to IPS symptoms, and limiting these foods may help manage the condition.
- Hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels, can lead to serious health complications such as long-term nervous system damage and increased heart attack risk.
- The rapid increase and subsequent drop in blood glucose levels in IPS can cause the symptoms associated with the condition.
- To manage IPS symptoms, a grazing diet, high in lean proteins, high fiber foods, and healthy fats, may be beneficial.
- If dietary changes do not relieve IPS symptoms, a doctor may recommend certain medications, including Acarbose (AGIs) which help delay carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine, potentially lowering postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels.
