Hypoglycemia and psychopathology: A methodological review

In this article, the authors review the available medical and psychological literature relating hypoglycemia and psychopathology. Issues surrounding the proper assessment of hypoglycemia are discussed. The research suggests that many persons carrying the popular diagnosis of hypoglycemia do not meet stringent diagnostic criteria. However, these inaccurately diagnosed individuals often exhibit psychiatric symptomatology, particularly somatization and depression. Also, many persons exhibiting low blood glucose levels do not report symptoms. The evidence supports a relationship between low and/or rapidly declining blood glucose levels and transient cognitive, affective, and somatic symptoms. The limited evidence does not support a relationship between hypoglycemia and panic disorder, major depression, aggression, or somatizing personality features. Implications for the clinician are discussed.