Blood sugar (glucose) is the main source of energy for the body, especially for the brain. It comes from carbohydrates in the diet and is transported via the blood to cells for energy.
1.Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
1.1 Mild to Moderate Symptoms:
- Constant fatigue: Low energy levels lead to fatigue.
- Tiredness: Persistent feeling of being tired throughout the day.
- Sweating: Excessive sweating when glucose levels are very low.
- Thirsty: Increased thirst.
- Hunger: Frequent hunger due to lack of energy and nutrients.
- Shakiness: Trembling or shaking.
- Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing clearly.
- Palpitations: Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Paleness: Skin may appear pale.
- Irritation: Feeling irritable or moody.
1.2 Severe Symptoms:
- Seizures: Convulsions or uncontrollable shaking.
- Loss of consciousness: Unresponsiveness or fainting.
2. Common Causes of Hypoglycemia
- Excessive insulin: Over-administration of insulin or other diabetes medications can lower blood sugar levels.
- Delayed or missed meals: Skipping meals or eating irregularly can lead to hypoglycemia, especially in diabetics.
- Imbalance between meals and insulin: Taking insulin without adequate food intake.
- Intense exercise: Vigorous physical activity can deplete glucose levels rapidly.
- Overproduction of insulin: Certain tumors, like insulinomas, cause excess insulin production.
- Insufficient glucagon production: A lack of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels, can contribute to hypoglycemia.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can cause the liver to prioritize metabolizing alcohol over maintaining blood sugar levels.
3. Treatment of Hypoglycemia
- Instant treatment: For an emergency, consume fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets, candy, or a piece of chocolate.
- Insulin management: Monitor and adjust insulin doses as necessary to avoid excessive drops in blood sugar.
- Balanced diet: Ensure a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor): A device that provides real-time blood sugar readings and alerts the user if levels are falling too low.
4. Who Are at Risk
- People with Type 1 Diabetes: More prone to hypoglycemia due to insulin dependence. Severe hypoglycemia has an annual incidence ranging from 3.3% to 13.5%.
- People with Type 2 Diabetes: Also at risk, especially if they use insulin or certain other diabetes medications.
5. Nutrition for Hypoglycemia
To manage hypoglycemia, consume foods that can quickly raise blood sugar levels. These typically contain fast-acting carbohydrates:
- Glucose tablets: Designed for rapid glucose absorption.
- Honey: Contains simple sugars that can quickly elevate blood sugar.
- Fruit juices: A quick source of glucose.
- Candy: Provides a quick sugar boost.
After treating an episode of hypoglycemia, follow up with a balanced meal that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
References
- Nakhleh, A., & Shehadeh, N. (2021). Hypoglycemia in diabetes: An update on pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention. World Journal of Diabetes, 12(12), 2036-2049.
- Morales, J., & Schneider, D. (2014). Hypoglycemia. The American Journal of Science.