In this world of refined sugars, many have lost an appreciation for the natural sweetness of some whole foods. 

Hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, is quite prevalent among people who abuse alcohol and drugs. The brain functions on glucose, and an inadequate supply affects mental processes.

Refined sugars act as strong stimulants, but as insulin floods the system to rapidly draw the sugar out of the bloodstream, a crash occurs, where energy and mood can drop dramatically.

Excessive consumption of meats fuels a craving for sugars in an attempt to re-establish the protein/carbohydrate ratio in the body. Consumption of animal products generates prostaglandins, which trigger pain, inflammation and even depression. Sugar and alcohol (a form of liquefied sugar) can temporarily help to alleviate these symptoms.

Consumption of too much salt reduces blood sugar. Only small amounts of sea salt should be used. Seaweeds and celery have a natural salty flavour, with other health benefits.

Chromium, Zinc & Manganese, factors which control blood sugar, are removed in the refining process which produces white sugar, white flour, refined salt and many other highly processed foods. These, along with Silicon (thought to improve pancreatic function) are contained in the bran of whole grains

Recommendations:

• Eat whole fruits as opposed to juices, as these provide the benefit of fibre. Citrus fruit lower blood sugar quickly, so should be eaten sparingly.

• Whole grains and carbohydrate-rich vegetables including winter squash, carrot, swede, parsnip, turnip, chickpeas, black beans, peas, sweet potato, yam, pumpkin

• Pungent vegetables and spices: onion, leek, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, ginger, cinnamon, fennel, garlic, nutmeg

• Small amounts of certain sweeteners and fruit: rice syrup, barley malt, molasses, cherries and dates can be tolerated

• Chew food thoroughly, as digestion, particularly of complex carbohydrates, begins with saliva. Thorough chewing is essential for their complete breakdown so that adequate minerals and other nutrients are absorbed.