Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood sugar dips too low. If you have diabetes, hypoglycemia may quickly lead to further complications, such as unconsciousness or coma, according to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Disease. Some foods may help if your blood sugar has fallen below your appropriate levels. Only consume food if you are able to swallow and enlist medical help to prevent your low blood sugar from getting worse.
Candy
Candy is a good source of sugar carbohydrate. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that you carry a supply of glucose tablets with you in case of a hypoglycemic episode. However, hard candy is a suitable substitute. Jelly beans, gum drops and hard candy are compact forms of sugar that work quickly to raise blood sugar levels, according the American Diabetes Association. Ingest three to six candies, one at a time, as needed for low blood sugar. Consider keeping a small supply of candies in each room, in an easily accessible place, in case you need a quick blood sugar boost.
Drinks
Some drinks contain enough sugar per serving to help boost low blood sugar until additional treatment can be obtained. Four to six ounces of non-diet soda pop, orange juice or apple juice are also useful for treating hypoglycemia. Keep a supply of juice or pop on hand, in an easily accessible location, in case you have a hypoglycemic episode. Make sure other people in your home or those who may assist you know how to quickly locate your supply of sugary drinks if a need for them arises.
Table Sugar
Table sugar provides 100 percent, fast-acting sugar in a hypoglycemic emergency. Table sugar works quickly to raise blood sugar levels; however, the body also burns it quickly which can lead to a low blood sugar recurrence. You may consume 1 tbsp. of straight table sugar if needed for hypoglycemia until further medical attention can be sought. If you prefer, 1 tbsp. of honey will also provide adequate sugar, according to the National Institute of Digestive and Diabetes and Kidney Disease.
Other Foods
Additional foods that contain fast-acting simple sugars may help raise low blood sugar. Two to three cookies, such as vanilla wafers may help bring blood sugar up. Cake frosting or jelly that contains sugar may also provide a sugar boost; the American Diabetes Association recommends eating 1 tbsp of frosting or jelly as needed for low blood sugar. Refrain from eating cookies or sugary condiments that are made of chocolate. Chocolate contains fats which take longer to digest and delay the absorption of sugar, according to the ADA.
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