How to Increase Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, happens when glucose levels in the blood drop to an unhealthy level (70 mg/dl or lower). Glucose is the energy that fuels the body, so it's important to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia and know how to increase low blood sugar if the situation should arise.

There are many causes of hypoglycemia - it can be something as simple as missed meals, for example, or something more serious such as too large a dosage of diabetes medication or insulin. Hypoglycemia is unhealthy for anyone, but more so for people who have type 2 diabetes.

The range of symptoms indicating hypoglycemia includes, among others: hunger, shakiness, dizziness, and anxiety. A regular diet including appropriate portion sizes and a variety of fresh, whole nutritious foods can help to prevent hypoglycemia. Planning medication with meals can also regulate the release of glucose into the bloodstream and assist in maintaining stable glucose levels.

Severe hypoglycemia needs to be treated fast. Take 15 to 20 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate. Good choices include:

• glucose tablets or gels;
• Honey (1 tablespoon) or buy honey packets for convenience (check the amount in each packet; you may need to take more than one);
• Any food with a high glycemic index, likes dates, watermelon, or a French baquette.

Symptoms should improve within 30 to 45 minutes. Always have some of these fast-acting carbs on hand, just in case. It is important however, to develop a regular diet that will help to prevent hypoglycemia rather than try to treat it after it occurs.

Anyone who regularly experiences hypoglycaemic symptoms should consult a healthcare professional. Severe hypoglycemia is more likely to be found in those with type 1 diabetes, but type 2 diabetics can also develop more severe symptoms that can be very dangerous. Severe attacks can be treated with injections of glucagon, which quickly brings up the levels of glucose in the blood. Because not everyone shows signs of hypoglycemia before the condition worsens, it is important to regularly monitor your blood glucose levels. Communicate with your healthcare professional to keep your blood sugar levels under control, and to learn how to safely increase low blood sugar.