The Hidden Dangers of Sugar Crashes
Are you experiencing dizziness, shakiness, and anxiety? It may not be just a side effect of social media scrolling. You could be experiencing a sugar crash, also known as reactive hypoglycemia. This condition occurs when blood sugar levels drop below 70 milligrams per deciliter, usually after a meal. While it’s not usually serious, it can be uncomfortable and may indicate an underlying condition.
What is a Sugar Crash?
A sugar crash, or reactive hypoglycemia, occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low after a meal. This can happen even if you don’t have diabetes. Symptoms include dizziness, hunger, shakiness, anxiety, confusion, and an increased heart rate.
Causes of Sugar Crashes
Sugar crashes can be caused by a range of factors, including prediabetes, recent stomach surgery, certain medications, and underlying conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney disease. Heavy alcohol consumption and pancreatic tumors can also contribute to sugar crashes.
How to Avoid Sugar Crashes
To avoid sugar crashes, eat 15 grams of carbs immediately after a crash, and opt for small, frequent meals throughout the day. Limit sugary foods and focus on complex carbs, healthy fats, and protein-rich foods.
Reactive Hypoglycemia vs. Fasting Hypoglycemia
Reactive hypoglycemia occurs when symptoms develop a few hours after eating, while fasting hypoglycemia occurs when symptoms don’t relate to meal times and are often caused by an underlying condition.
The Role of Insulin
Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. When insulin levels get too high or the body becomes resistant to its effects, glucose levels can drop, leading to a sugar crash.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you experience a sugar crash, seek medical attention to rule out underlying conditions such as diabetes. Your doctor may perform a mixed-meal tolerance test or ask you to fast for up to 72 hours to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Managing Sugar Crashes
To manage sugar crashes, focus on a balanced diet of complex carbs, healthy fats, and protein-rich foods. Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day and limit sugary foods. Carry emergency snacks with you, such as juice, glucose tablets, or hard candy, to quickly raise your blood sugar levels if needed.
Takeaway
Sugar crashes can happen even if you don’t have diabetes. By understanding the causes and symptoms of sugar crashes, you can take steps to avoid them and manage your blood sugar levels. Remember to seek medical attention if you experience frequent sugar crashes, as they can be a symptom of an underlying condition.
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