From:
Roger Vaughn
Date: 2002-06-14 23:28:00 UTC
Subject: RE: New Member, Insulinoma.
> than just sugar alone.) So is Lydia, as suffering from Insulinoma,
> having problems with high blood sugar, as I do, or low blood
> sugar??
Jen,
You're thinking right. Insulinoma causes an overabundance of insulin,
and therefore low blood sugar.
The problem with sugary treats is that any sugar or carb causes a
roller-coaster effect - you get a brief sugar "high" followed by a
sugar "low". That dip below normal is dangerous for a ferret who
already insulinoma - and already low blood sugars. Generally, the more
complex the carb the less pronounced the effect. Grains for instance
produce a gradual build up and gradual decline, while glucose gives you
a quick, deep spike. So, carbs are generally much safer. Their BG
cycle takes much longer, and is much shallower.
I think almost all of us humans are familiar with the "sugar crash"
from splurging on too many treats at sometime in our lives. This is
the same effect.
I hope that helps!
Roger & the Fibonacci Ferts
Tampa, FL