Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is the most frequent problem associated with diabetes, as noted by Margaret A. Powers, MS, RD, CDE, in the "Handbook of Diabetes Medical Nutrition Therapy." Hypoglycemia is often a result of a medication interaction, inadequate meal intake, increased activity level or alcohol consumption. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, symptoms of low blood sugar include fatigue, feeling dizzy, weakness, a shaky feeling and hunger. Severe incidents of hypoglycemia require immediate medical attention, as changes in mental status, seizures or coma may occur.
Carbohydrate-Rich Foods
The treatment of low blood sugar, or a blood sugar of less than 70mg/dL, involves consuming 10g to 20g of glucose, as reported by the NIDDK. A slice of bread, 4 oz. of juice, a cup of milk and 1/2 cup applesauce provide about 15g of carbohydrates or glucose. After eating the carbohydrate source, wait 15 minutes to recheck blood sugar. If blood sugar remains below 70mg/dL, repeat the process by consuming an additional 10g to 20g of glucose. Once the blood sugar is above 70mg/dL, the NIDDK recommends a between-meal snack if the next meal is more than one hour away.
Glucose Tablets
Glucose or sugar tablets are available over the counter and provide about 4g to 5g of glucose per tablet, as noted by Powers. Following the guidelines above, three to four glucose tablets may be taken in place of the carbohydrate food source. Glucose tablets are a convenient option when away from home.
Glucose Gel
A glucose-containing gel yielding 15g of glucose is available over the counter, as noted by the NIDDK. The gel offers an alternative to the glucose tablet and is another option when on the go. As with the other options for treating hypoglycemia, the blood sugar should be rechecked 15 minutes after taking the glucose gel. Taking another dose of gel is necessary if the blood sugar remains below 70mg/dL.
Glucagon Injection
Available by prescription only, a glucagon injection is given when the hypoglycemic individual is not able to consume an oral glucose solution or is unconscious, as reported by MayoClinic.com. A trained individual or medical professional may administer this injection when appropriate.
Other Treatments
To minimize the risk of hypoglycemia, be sure to eat a meal after taking any diabetic medications. If you are unable to eat something, drink a carbohydrate-containing beverage. Pay attention to the signs of low blood sugar. Be aware of changes in your meal intake or activity patterns, as small differences may affect blood sugar levels. The NIDDK recommends only drinking alcohol as part of a meal or snack.
References
- "Handbook of Diabetes Medical Nutrition Therapy"; Margaret A. Powers; 1996
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Hypoglycemia
- Mayo Clinic: Glucagon (Injection Route)
