This article is based on a systematic review (Hewitt et al 2005), which extends a review undertaken by the World Health Organization (WHO 1997a). The article discusses: signs of hypoglycaemia; effectiveness of type of feeds in preventing hypoglycaemia and maintaining blood glucose levels; effectiveness of timing of feeds in preventing hypoglycaemia; effectiveness of thermoregulation in preventing hypoglycaemia; implications for practice; and recommendations.