She Strengthens

The Lowdown on Low Blood Sugar

What’s the Deal with Hypoglycemia?

You don’t have to be diabetic to experience low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or blood sugar levels below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), can happen to anyone. If it’s a frequent occurrence, it’s time to see your doctor. Prediabetes or other medical issues might be the culprit.

Symptoms Galore

When your blood sugar drops, you might feel:

• Shaky
• Overheated
• Hungry
• Headachy
• Blurry vision
• Sleepy
• Dizzy or lightheaded
• Confused or disoriented

The Two Faces of Hypoglycemia

There are two types of hypoglycemia that can affect someone without diabetes:

1. Fasting Hypoglycemia: Triggered by medications or drinking too much alcohol on an empty stomach.
2. Reactive Hypoglycemia: Happens when your blood sugar plummets within a few hours after eating a meal, often a sign of prediabetes.

Red Light, Green Light: Blood Sugar Regulation

Two hormones, insulin and glucagon, regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin stops glucose from spreading in your bloodstream, while glucagon releases it. Hypoglycemia occurs when insulin dominates, causing your blood sugar to drop.

Risk Factors and Triggers

• Family history of diabetes
• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Certain medications
• Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach
• Underlying medical conditions, such as hepatitis or pancreatic tumors
• Gastric bypass surgery

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose nondiabetic hypoglycemia, your doctor will review your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and order a fasting or random glucose test. Treatment involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause, making lifestyle changes, and managing blood sugar levels.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hypoglycemia

• Eat a balanced diet low in sugar and high in protein, fiber, and complex carbs
• Eat small meals every few hours
• Carry snacks with you
• Exercise regularly
• Limit alcohol intake
• Avoid heavy caffeine consumption

Take Control of Your Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia is serious business. By being mindful of what you eat and drink, you can decrease the frequency of hypoglycemic episodes. Don’t ignore symptoms – take action and talk to your doctor if you experience frequent bouts of low blood sugar.