Low blood sugar can be dangerous. It is led by, among other things. skipping meals, eating less food than normal or exercising very intensively. What are the symptoms of low blood sugar and what to do in such a situation?
Blood sugar is called glucose. It is an important source of energy for the body, which obtains it from carbohydrates contained in food. Potatoes, rice, bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables and dairy products contain it in large amounts. After a meal, glucose enters the bloodstream, and insulin – a hormone produced in the pancreas – helps cells convert it into energy.
If you eat more sugar than you need, the body stores it in the liver and muscles or turns it into fat so it can use it in the future. In turn, without enough glucose, the body is unable to function normally. Blood sugar levels are considered low when they fall below 70 mg/dl.
What causes low blood sugar?
Low blood sugar can occur for many reasons. Skipping meals, eating much less food than usual or excessive physical activity can also lead to a drop in glucose. Drinking alcohol can further aggravate the condition.
What are the symptoms of low blood sugar?
A drop in blood sugar levels can cause sudden onset of symptoms such as blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, sudden mood changes, nervousness, unexplained fatigue, pale skin, headaches and dizziness, tremors, trouble thinking clearly and concentrating, loss of consciousness and even coma.
If you suspect you have low blood sugar, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible to determine the cause of the condition. Prepare answers to questions about your medical history, eating habits and symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will conduct an initial examination and have your blood sugar levels analyzed in a laboratory. It’s important to watch to see if your symptoms go away when your glucose levels rise to normal levels. Over-the-counter special tests are available in pharmacies so that you can determine its level at home, from blood drawn from your finger.
What to do when blood sugar drops?
When blood sugar levels are too low, it is crucial to eat something rich in carbohydrates. In this situation, muesli bars, fresh or dried fruits, juices, pretzels or cookies will be good. Can episodes of too low blood sugar be prevented? There are several ways to do so. First, don’t go on restrictive diets (less than 1,500 kcal) and don’t lead to many hours between meals. If you plan to exercise on a given day, it’s best to eat something light two hours beforehand. After a hard workout, you can also reach for an isotonic drink to replenish electrolytes in your body.
Improper nutrition and failure to adjust the diet to meet the needs of the body can cause drops in blood glucose, resulting in impaired mood and a range of other symptoms. Supplementing sugar to normal concentrations has an all-around beneficial effect on health.