If Blood Sugar Low What to Do? – Comprehensive guide

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "If blood sugar low what to do?" Well, you're not alone. Managing blood sugar levels is a critical aspect of maintaining overall health, especially for individuals with diabetes. But let's start with the basics first.

Understanding Blood Sugar

Unveiling the mystery of blood sugar is a significant step towards better health, especially for those living with diabetes or at risk of developing this condition. This fundamental component of our biology plays a crucial role in our day-to-day functionality and overall wellbeing. Let's delve into what blood sugar actually is and why it's so important for our bodies.

What Is Blood Sugar?

Blood sugar, medically referred to as glucose, is an essential type of sugar that powers the body. It is the body's primary source of energy, fueling all activities from basic cellular processes to intense physical exertions. Glucose is derived from the foods we eat — especially those rich in carbohydrates such as fruits, grains and sugary snacks.

When we consume these food items, our body works like a highly efficient factory, breaking down the carbohydrates into simpler sugar molecules, predominantly glucose. This glucose then enters the bloodstream, hence the term 'blood sugar'. But it doesn't stop there. It's not enough for the glucose to simply be in the blood; it needs to get inside the body's cells to power them.

This is where insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, comes into play. Insulin acts like a key, opening up the cells so that glucose can enter. Once inside the cells transform glucose into energy or store it for future use. But, what happens if our blood sugar levels drop too low? The simple answer is - our bodies do not function as efficiently as they should.

The Role of Blood Sugar in The Body

To understand the significance of blood sugar, imagine your body as a complex machine. Each part of this machine, or each cell in your body, requires a constant supply of energy to work correctly. That's where glucose the superior fuel, comes into the picture. Glucose is especially important for our brain. The brain, unlike other organs, cannot store energy and requires a continuous supply of glucose from the blood. This reliance on glucose explains why we need to maintain a steady level of blood sugar to keep our minds sharp and focused.

In addition to fueling the brain, glucose is essential for multiple bodily functions. It's needed for our muscles during physical activity, whether that's during a strenuous workout or simply when carrying groceries. Blood sugar supports our body's growth and repair, powering the production of cells and maintaining healthy tissues. But the role of blood sugar isn't just about powering the body's cells.

It's also crucial in regulating the body's hormones, including insulin. When glucose levels in the blood rise the pancreas is prompted to release insulin to ensure glucose gets into the cells. Conversely, if blood sugar levels drop the pancreas releases a hormone called glucagon which signals the liver to release stored glucose back into the bloodstream. This balance helps maintain optimal body functionality.

In essence, our survival and ability to perform daily tasks efficiently rely heavily on maintaining a certain amount of blood sugar. If our blood sugar dips too low, we can experience a variety of symptoms and even put ourselves at risk of severe health complications. Hence, understanding the delicate balance of blood sugar is the first step towards ensuring our health and wellbeing.

Recognizing Low Blood Sugar

Recognizing low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is a crucial aspect of managing your health, especially if you're diabetic or prone to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Whether you have just been diagnosed with diabetes or have been managing it for years, understanding the symptoms of low blood sugar and being able to quickly identify them can be potentially lifesaving.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar

Symptoms of low blood sugar are the body's warning signs that your glucose levels are dangerously low and immediate action is required. They can manifest differently for different people and it is crucial to understand your unique symptoms. The ability to identify these signs, ranging from mild to severe, can be crucial in preventing a hypoglycemic episode from escalating into a medical emergency.

The earliest symptoms of low blood sugar are often mild but noticeable. You might feel a sudden wave of hunger, even if you've recently eaten. This is your body's way of telling you it needs more fuel. You may also experience sweating or a cold, clammy feeling on your skin. Another common sign is dizziness or light-headedness, making you feel as if you might faint. As your blood sugar levels continue to drop, more symptoms may start to emerge.

You might begin to feel irritable or anxious for no apparent reason. You may also experience shakiness or tremors, a feeling as though your hands or body are vibrating slightly. It's important to note these symptoms and not dismiss them, as they indicate that your body needs immediate attention. In some instances the symptoms of low blood sugar can be more severe, especially if left untreated. You may experience confusion, difficulty concentrating, or even blurred vision.

In the most severe cases, low blood sugar can result in loss of consciousness, seizures, or even coma. The key takeaway is that these symptoms serve as a wake-up call from your body, asking you to address the issue promptly. The moment you notice these signs, it's important to respond quickly and take steps to raise your blood sugar level.

Blood Sugar Blood Test Normal Range

While understanding the symptoms is crucial, quantifying your blood sugar levels can help provide a clearer picture of your body's state. This is where a blood sugar blood test comes into play. A blood glucose test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in your bloodstream at the time of the test. It can be done at any time of the day, but the timing can significantly impact the results, hence the reference to "fasting" and "post-meal" measurements.

A fasting glucose test, typically conducted in the morning before you've had anything to eat or drink, can provide valuable information about your baseline glucose levels. For most individuals the normal range for fasting blood glucose is between 70 to 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). On the other hand, a postprandial glucose test is done approximately two hours after a meal and it measures the impact of your food choices on your blood glucose levels. Generally, a level up to 140 mg/dL two hours after eating is considered within the normal range.

However, it's important to remember that "normal" ranges can differ slightly depending on the lab that analyzes the blood sample and the type of test used. Furthermore, personal factors such as age, overall health status and whether or not you have certain medical conditions can influence what should be considered "normal" for you.

In summary, recognizing low blood sugar involves understanding your unique symptoms and being vigilant about monitoring your blood sugar levels. While this may feel overwhelming at first, with time, it can become a manageable part of your daily routine. Your health is worth the effort.

Consequences of Ignoring Low Blood Sugar

Many people underestimate the importance of balanced blood sugar levels, not realizing that both extremes, whether high or low, can lead to serious health complications. However, it is important to understand the gravity of ignoring the symptoms of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, as the consequences can be severe and even life-threatening. Firstly, let's understand what happens when your blood sugar level plunges.

The body enters a state of alarm, attempting to restore the balance by triggering a series of symptoms that should ideally prompt you to consume fast-acting carbohydrates.

These symptoms, as previously mentioned, can include dizziness, sweating, irritability and even shakiness. Yet, if these signs are brushed off or unrecognized the body may find itself in a more dangerous predicament.

Ignoring low blood sugar over the short term leads to more than just the unpleasant symptoms mentioned above. It can escalate to affect your cognitive function, causing confusion and difficulty concentrating. Imagine trying to do something as simple as making a cup of tea and finding yourself struggling to remember the steps. Or perhaps you're in the middle of a meeting and you suddenly find it hard to follow the conversation.

This disruption to cognitive function can lead to clumsiness, a lack of coordination and the potential for accidents and injuries. If left untreated, low blood sugar can progress to more severe symptoms. Fainting or loss of consciousness is one potential outcome, especially if the body does not receive glucose promptly.

This situation can be dangerous, especially if the person is in a situation where they can injure themselves or others, such as while driving or operating heavy machinery. In the most extreme cases, prolonged, untreated hypoglycemia can lead to a coma or even death. This underlines the seriousness of maintaining balanced blood sugar levels and the potential grave consequences of neglecting signs of hypoglycemia.

Vector illustration of glucose levels in the blood.

Solution for Low Blood Sugar

Managing low blood sugar is a two-step process. It involves immediate actions to treat the current low blood sugar episode and long-term solutions to prevent recurrent hypoglycemia.

Immediate Actions

When confronted with a low blood sugar situation, swift and appropriate action is essential. Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can lead to a host of adverse symptoms that range from mild (like feeling shaky or sweaty) to severe (like seizures or unconsciousness). To quickly raise blood sugar levels, you should consume 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. These can be in the form of:

• Glucose tablets or gels: These are over-the-counter options specifically designed to rapidly raise blood sugar levels. They are easily digestible and provide an accurate dosage of glucose.
• Fruit juice or regular soda: About half a cup can typically provide the necessary amount of carbohydrates needed to elevate blood sugar levels. They are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Candies or sweets: Hard candies, jelly beans, or honey can also work if other options are not available.

After consuming these, wait for 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar levels. If your blood sugar levels are still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the process. Once your blood sugar returns to normal, try to eat a small snack or meal to stabilize your sugar levels if your next planned meal or snack is more than an hour or two away.

Long-Term Solutions

While immediate actions treat a low blood sugar episode, adopting a long-term strategy can help prevent its recurrence. The solution revolves around three key pillars:

• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet is crucial. Incorporating foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, can provide a slow and steady release of sugar into the bloodstream. It’s also important to eat regular meals and snacks to avoid significant dips in blood sugar levels.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity increases the cells' sensitivity to insulin, allowing your body to use sugar more effectively. However, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels before, during and after exercise as physical activity can sometimes lead to hypoglycemia.

• Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Regular blood sugar monitoring is a powerful tool in managing your glucose levels. It allows you to understand how different factors like food, physical activity, stress and medication affect your sugar levels. By recognizing the patterns, you can anticipate and avoid potential low blood sugar episodes.

Good Blood Level for Diabetes

Maintaining a good blood glucose level is the cornerstone of diabetes management. But what exactly is a "good" blood glucose level? For individuals with diabetes, a healthy blood glucose level is typically between 80-130 mg/dL before meals. However, blood sugar levels fluctuate throughout the day, influenced by meals, physical activity and medications.

Therefore, it's not uncommon for blood glucose levels to rise to less than 180 mg/dL two hours after starting a meal. These are considered good blood sugar levels as they help prevent both short-term and long-term complications of diabetes.

However, it's important to remember that these figures aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. Blood sugar targets can vary based on an individual’s age the type and duration of diabetes, co-existing medical conditions and the risk of severe hypoglycemia.

A young, healthy individual might have tighter targets, while an elderly person or someone with multiple medical conditions might have more liberal targets. Therefore, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider to establish personalized targets. Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range involves a combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity and medication (if prescribed by your doctor).

It also means regular blood sugar testing and learning to adjust your lifestyle based on those test results. Ultimately, achieving good blood glucose levels is a delicate balance. It’s about understanding your body, how it reacts to different factors and how you can intervene to maintain equilibrium. While it might seem daunting initially, with knowledge, support and practice, it becomes second nature.

Recommended Blood Sugar Level

Understanding and maintaining recommended blood sugar levels is a cornerstone of good health, especially when it comes to preventing conditions like diabetes or managing them effectively if they're already a part of your life. For non-diabetic individuals these figures serve as a vital benchmark for health, acting as an early warning system if things start to veer off course.

The recommended blood sugar level for a non-diabetic individual is typically less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) when fasting. This number is arrived at after an eight-hour fast, usually overnight which is why this reading is often taken first thing in the morning before any food or drink is consumed. When it comes to postprandial or after-meal readings the recommended blood sugar level should be less than 140 mg/dL two hours after meals.

This figure accounts for the expected rise in blood sugar following a meal as the body works to break down consumed carbohydrates into glucose. Remember these numbers are not fixed targets but represent a healthy range within which blood sugar levels should ideally fluctuate. Occasional deviations might not be a cause for concern, but consistent irregularities should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Normal Blood Reading for Diabetes

While each person with diabetes is unique, a 'normal' blood glucose reading is generally between 80-180 mg/dL. This wide range accommodates variations due to factors like meal times, physical activity and medication effects. It's crucial to strive for consistency in keeping glucose levels within this range, as erratic blood sugar can lead to serious complications.

These complications may affect various parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. Achieving these targets involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, appropriate medication and continuous monitoring of blood sugar levels. However these are general recommendations and personal targets may vary.

Individuals should consult their healthcare providers to set personalized goals, taking into account factors such as age, duration of diabetes the presence of other health conditions and lifestyle factors. Maintaining recommended blood sugar levels and understanding what constitutes a normal reading for diabetes can significantly impact the successful management of your overall health and specifically, diabetes. Being informed empowers you to take control and make lifestyle choices that support healthier blood sugar levels.

Role of SugarMD Super Berberine

When considering long-term solutions, dietary supplements such as SugarMD Super Berberine come into the picture. SugarMD Super Berberine is a superior supplement that supports healthy glucose metabolism and reduces inflammation. Its potent blend of dihydroberberine and 100% pure Ceylon cinnamon helps keep blood sugar in the healthy range. Regular use leads to a significant reduction in inflammation, making it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy glucose levels.

Conclusion

Knowing what to do when your blood sugar is low is crucial, especially for individuals with diabetes. Recognizing the signs of low blood sugar, knowing the solution for low blood sugar and understanding what constitutes a good blood level for diabetes are all vital steps in managing your health.

Remember, every individual is different and while this guide provides general advice, always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the immediate steps to take if my blood sugar is low?

Consuming 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates can help raise your blood sugar quickly.

What is a good blood glucose level for someone with diabetes?

Typically, it's between 80-130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after starting a meal.

What is the normal range for blood sugar?

For most people, it's between 70 to 100 mg/dL when fasting and up to 140 mg/dL two hours after eating.

What can happen if I ignore low blood sugar?

If not treated promptly, it can cause confusion, clumsiness, or fainting. Severe cases can even lead to seizures, coma, or death.

What is the role of SugarMD Super Berberine?

SugarMD Super Berberine is a supplement that supports healthy glucose metabolism and reduces inflammation, thus helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

About The Author

Meet Dr. Ahmet Ergin a highly skilled and dedicated endocrinologist with a passion for diabetes care. Dr. Ergin earned his medical degree with honors from Marmara University in Istanbul. He completed internal medicine residency and endocrinology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic.

Dr. Ergin is board-certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism due to his vast medical expertise. He's a certified diabetes educator, author of "The Ultimate Diabetes Book," and founder of "the SugarMD YouTube channel."  

Dr. Ergin offers exceptional diabetes care to his patients in Port Saint Lucie, FL, helping them manage effectively. Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Information on this website isn’t intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. Discuss with your doctor and do not self-treat.