If you have diabetes or another medical condition that sometimes causes episodes of low blood sugar, it’s important to regularly check your blood sugar with a home test. People with diabetes may have problems with their feet because high blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves. To help prevent foot problems, wear comfortable and supportive shoes and take care of your feet before, during, and after physical activity.
This is a type of hypoglycemia caused by fasting (not eating for a long time). For most healthy people, fasting shouldn’t cause hypoglycemia. This is because your body knows how to manage blood sugar effectively, even when you haven’t eaten. They’re fibrous, provide beneficial vitamins and minerals, and contain natural sugars for energy. It’s best to pair fruit with a protein or healthy fat to sustain your fullness and keep your blood sugar level even. Having a whole-grain, fibrous carbohydrate paired with a protein or healthy fat is also a great option.
If the result shows low blood sugar (under 70 mg/dL), treat according to your diabetes treatment plan. Maintaining the balance between insulin, food and activity isn’t always easy. But your health care provider, certified diabetes care and education specialist, and registered dietitian can work with you to try to prevent low blood sugar levels. High levels of ketones in your blood can lead to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a medical emergency that should be treated right away.
Having low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can be a challenging experience. It’s important to know how to manage it effectively to avoid any complications. Here are some helpful tips to help you when your blood sugar levels drop:
1. Eat small, frequent meals
One of the best ways to prevent low blood sugar is to eat regular meals throughout the day. Aim to have three main meals and two to three snacks in between. This will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent any sudden drops.
This excess insulin leads to the drop in their blood sugar level. If you have diabetes, episodes of low blood sugar are uncomfortable and can be frightening. Fear of hypoglycemia can cause you to take less insulin to ensure that your blood sugar level doesn’t go too low. Talk to your health care provider about your fear, and don’t change your diabetes medication dose without discussing changes with your health care provider. When you go a few hours without eating, blood sugar levels go down. If you have a healthy pancreas, it releases a hormone called glucagon to make up for the absence of food.
However, you should ask your health care professional whether it makes sense to monitor or limit your weight gain during pregnancy. Making lifestyle changes can be hard, but starting with small changes and building from there may benefit your health. You may want to get help from family, loved ones, friends, and other trusted people in your community. You can also get information from your health care professionals. Low blood sugar usually affects people with diabetes who take insulin or some other diabetes medicines. If your blood sugar is still low, eat another 15 g of carbohydrates, wait another 15 minutes, and retest.
If you’re experiencing mild or moderate symptoms, it’s important to eat or drink 15 g of easily digestible carbohydrates right away. If your blood sugar drops too low, it can become life threatening and need immediate treatment. If you have hypoglycemia unawareness, you may need to check your blood sugar levels more regularly. A doctor may recommend a continuous glucose monitor, a device that can alert you to changes in your blood sugar levels. Even a short-term decrease in blood glucose can cause problems.
2. Carry glucose tablets or gel
It’s always a good idea to have some form of fast-acting glucose with you at all times. Glucose tablets or gel can quickly raise your blood sugar levels in case of an emergency. Make sure to always have them on hand, especially when you’re out and about.
3. Check your blood sugar regularly
Monitoring your blood sugar levels frequently can help you stay on top of any fluctuations. Make sure to check your levels as often as recommended by your healthcare provider, especially if you’re feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms of low blood sugar.
4. Be mindful of exercise
Exercise can sometimes cause your blood sugar levels to drop, so it’s important to be cautious when working out. Make sure to check your blood sugar before and after exercising, and always carry a snack with you in case you start to feel shaky or lightheaded.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help regulate your blood sugar levels. Dehydration can actually make hypoglycemia worse, so make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly.
By following these tips, you can better manage your low blood sugar and ensure that you stay healthy and safe. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on managing hypoglycemia.
