Hypoglycemia
Lessens the body's available energy
The Downhill Battle
Hypoglycemia is when the levels of glucose in the blood are abnormally low. This is caused by an excess of insulin in the blood usually resulting from diabetes treatments. The pancreas tries to combat it by releasing glucagon that signals the liver to break down the glycogen and release glucose into the bloodstream. However, the large amount of insulin impairs the glucagon response making it very difficult for glucose levels to increase.
Symptoms
Hunger, shakiness, nervousness, sweating, dizziness or lightheadedness, headaches, sleepiness, confusion, difficulty speaking, anxiety, and weakness.
Treatment
1. Consume 15-20 grams of glucose or simple carbohydrates. Ex: glucose tablets, fruit juice, non-diet soda, milk, hard candy, sugar, honey, ect.
2. Recheck your blood glucose levels after 15 minutes.
3. If hypoglycemia continues, consume more glucose or simple sugars.
4. Once blood pressure returns to normal, eat a small snack if your next meal or snack is more than an hour or two away.